Among the recipients of this charitable act were the royal palace, the council of chiefs, elders, faith-based organizations—including the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN)—as well as various socio-cultural and youth groups.
Leaders from these groups and local elders gathered at the Elumelu family home on Sunday to express their heartfelt gratitude for the donation of this essential food item.
During a brief ceremony, representatives from the different groups took the opportunity to praise Elumelu and offer prayers for him and his family. In his remarks, Elumelu shared that he finds great joy in supporting others, especially within his ancestral community. He encouraged the attendees to prioritize giving and unity in their lives.
He reaffirmed his commitment to empowering youth and assisting those around him with the resources he has been blessed with. Elumelu, represented by Nasir Ramon, the Head of Media and External Relations at UBA, expressed his appreciation for the community's warm response and urged them to continue fostering a spirit of love and togetherness.
Ramon further remarked: “Tony Elumelu embodies hard work, generosity and the unshakeable belief that when we lift others, we rise together. We encourage everyone to embrace this spirit of giving and unity, not just during Christmas but in our everyday lives.”
On behalf of the community, the traditional leader, Agbogidi Agbamuche, represented by Chief Steve Osakwe, the Ede of Onicha-Uku, characterized the ceremony as significant.
He emphasized that Elumelu has consistently demonstrated humility, compassion, and dedication to his origins, even in light of his extraordinary achievements and prominent global stature, continually contributing to the welfare of his local community.
He said: “Today we gather to celebrate the spirit of Christmas – a season of love, kindness, and generosity. This event is a testament to the deep commitment of Tony Elumelu to his roots, his people, and his vision for a better and brighter future for all. He has not only made an indelible mark on the global stage but continues to impact lives right here in his hometown.
“This initiative reflects the values Elumelu embodies: hard work, generosity, and the unshakeable belief that when we lift others, we rise together.”
Several leaders from various beneficiary groups, including a representative from the Onicha-Uku Traditional Council, the Ede of Onicha Uku, Osakwe, the Provost of the College of Nursing, Mrs. Ngozi Olise, community youth leader Mr. Hilary Okechukwu Okonkwo, and Okonji Elumelu from Ishiekpe Village, conveyed their gratitude for the generous holiday contribution.
They encouraged the community to follow Elumelu's example of consistently offering support and uplifting others.