UIU-USA National President's Address
Fellow Umuoji Citizens:
On behalf of Umuoji Improvement Union, U.S.A, I would like to express my profound gratitude to the National Executive Committee, Branch Executive and the entire members of this organization for your staunch support, dedication and willingness to go the extra mile in building a solid foundation for our organization. Your intellectual and financial contribution has set the stage for implementation of projects and actualization of dreams.
Fellow Umuoji Citizens:
On behalf of Umuoji Improvement Union, U.S.A, I would like to express my profound gratitude to the National Executive Committee, Branch Executive and the entire members of this organization for your staunch support, dedication and willingness to go the extra mile in building a solid foundation for our organization. Your intellectual and financial contribution has set the stage for implementation of projects and actualization of dreams.
July 4th and 5th, 2008 mark yet another golden opportunity for all Umuojians to come together to share the memories of the good old days while working together to make Umuoji a better place for us all. The 2008 UIU-USA National Convention, as previously announced by the able publicity secretary, will be hosted by the Atlanta Branch. The National Executive Committee is working very closely with Atlanta branch to ensure a peaceful, loving, and productive deliberation and fun packed gala-nite. The Atlanta Branch Chairman, Chief Chuma Okeke-Ekpe and his team have promised Umuojians a treat of a life time.
The goal of the 2008 Convention is to promote peace and unity among our people and to raise funds for implementation of Umuoji Boys High School Project. The task ahead of us is not an easy one. However, your willingness to participate and desire to make a difference remains a motivating factor in minds of many. In the near future, we shall call on all Umuojians in Diaspora and beyond for intellectual and financial support for the School project. Your generous donations will touch the lives of many children in Umuoji.
A unique and important component of this convention is the addition of children’s activity as a means of relationship building among our youth. All Umuojians are strongly advised to attend the convention as this will be a melting pot for all issues affecting our people – ranging from constitutional issues to simple matters affecting the smooth running of our association.
H.R.H Igwe Dr. Cyril Enweze, Ebube Igwulube Okodu, will be a special guest to this convention. His blessings will go a long way in promoting the peace and unification agenda which this administration takes to heart. At the 2007 National Convention, Igwe informed us that his first OFALA festival will be held in December 2008 as approved and scheduled by UIU Central Executive Committee, Umuoji. The festival has been tentatively scheduled for December 28th and 29th 2008 or 29th and 30th2008. All sons and daughters of Umuoji, families and friends are invited to this historic and culturally rich festival. Detailed information will be released by the publicity secretary in due course.
On March 31, 2008 this administration will complete the first six months in office. Within this short period, a lot of work has been done and progress has been made in different areas.
1) Peace and Unification Agenda has seen quite a bit of progress, climaxed by the addition of Umuojians in the Tri-State (NY/NJ/Connecticut) and Kansas City branches to UIU-USA. We understand there are other gaps to bridge and will continue to knock on doors until the day we all sing with one voice. Special thanks go to H.R.H. Igwe Dr. Cyril Enweze, Ebube Igwulube Okodu, for initiating and sponsoring the peace mission to Umuojians in the NY/NJ area. Worthy of mention is the special delegation comprising Late Dr. Michael Sunny Agina, Chief Godwin Oguchi, Chief Chuma Okeke-Ekpe and Dr. Fidelis Onyimba whose effort resulted in the successful integration. Thanks to all Umuojians in the New York – New Jersey areas for a very warm reception accorded the delegates.
2) Excellent accounting practice and procedure, evidenced by publications and statements of accounts from the finance department attest to the heightened attention to credibility and accountability. This administration maintains an open book policy and has positioned itself for future financial success.
3) The organization has seen significant improvement in the areas of communication and positive publicity with the provision of UIU-USA group e-mails and blog-site. The leadership realizes the power of effective communication. We have therefore embraced a result oriented vertical and horizontal approach to communication, minimizing to the extent possible, negativity and derogatory attacks that tear us apart.
4) Umuoji Boys High School Project remains a major high light of this administration. After thorough evaluation of the deplorable condition of the school, the national executive committee, at the teleconference held on March 9, 2008 approved the sum of $6000.00 for the first phase of this project. This will cover installation of front and back gates and erection of supporting wall and fence covering 25 partitions out of 325 partitions needed to cover the entire fence. This is a major land mark in the history of UIU-USA. Extensive feasibility study was done and quotations received from contractors. Viable financing and fund raising strategies are being explored to ensure the sustainability of this huge endeavor. Ground breaking construction work has been officially slated for commencement on or before April 5, 2008. Special thanks to the four man committee comprising Late Dr. Michael Sunny Agina, Engr. Cletus Okonkwo, Mr. Peter Azogini and Mr. Pius Okaneme. The committee worked tirelessly to provide a written recommendation which was ratified by the national executive committee.
5) Increased enrollment and renewed interest in the affairs of Umuoji Improvement Union have been seen. Rejuvenated and revitalized spirit of brotherhood among registered members and non-registered members alike speak to the resurgence of patriotism.
6) Insurance program for UIU-USA members is in its final stages. Though the insurance program remains optional, all members are strongly advised to take advantage of the program in the interest of our loved ones and our noble organization. There is an urgent need to embrace this program so we can free ourselves of the burden created by inevitable loss of a member. This can be a positive turn of events following the loss of our founding President.
Reflecting on progress made the out pouring of spirit of oneness shown by Umuojians far and near, over the death of Dr. Michael Sunny Agina stands out in our minds. The National Executive Committee and the Houston branch worked very hard to accord him funeral rites befitting of a fallen Hero. For that and many other reasons, I say thank you all for job well done.
7) The Tax exempt status of the organization is approaching final stages and pretty soon donors will be able to deduct donations from the IRS. Thanks to Mr. Frank Oligbo and Chief Chuma Okeke-Ekpe for their effort in this regard.
As the year progresses, the union will continue to focus on all cardinal objectives with emphasis on implementation of projects that impact daily life of Umuojians at home and abroad. The areas of interest include Education and Health programs. New committees will be formed to look into these programs to determine special needs and make recommendations to the national executive committee for further action.
In addition to Education and Health committees, the organization intends to create a Website committee to explore the development of a state of the art, full fledge, website. We are well endowed with human resources with respect to computer network systems and we will utilize all available information to get this program up and running in record time. Another committee of interest is Fund Raising Committee. This committee will be charged with the responsibility of developing, strategizing and master minding fund raising campaigns for our organization.
My beloved people of Umuoji, this administration has made a leap of faith. The relentless effort of the national executive committee, even in the face of adversity, has yielded unprecedented results. Though the task ahead of us is enormous, the tenacity shown by our officers and the genuine desire to surmount all obstacles on the way are good enough reasons to give them all the support needed to get the job done.
Restoration of unity, peace, love, dignity and trust to our organization remains top priority. I am therefore calling on all Umuojians in the Americas to rise above any differences, and come together as a people of one origin, common heritage and common goal. “United we Stand, divided we fall”
Long Live UIU-USA!!! Long Live UIU General!!!
May God Bless Us All.
Fidelis Onyimba, Pharm. D
National President, UIU-USA
The goal of the 2008 Convention is to promote peace and unity among our people and to raise funds for implementation of Umuoji Boys High School Project. The task ahead of us is not an easy one. However, your willingness to participate and desire to make a difference remains a motivating factor in minds of many. In the near future, we shall call on all Umuojians in Diaspora and beyond for intellectual and financial support for the School project. Your generous donations will touch the lives of many children in Umuoji.
A unique and important component of this convention is the addition of children’s activity as a means of relationship building among our youth. All Umuojians are strongly advised to attend the convention as this will be a melting pot for all issues affecting our people – ranging from constitutional issues to simple matters affecting the smooth running of our association.
H.R.H Igwe Dr. Cyril Enweze, Ebube Igwulube Okodu, will be a special guest to this convention. His blessings will go a long way in promoting the peace and unification agenda which this administration takes to heart. At the 2007 National Convention, Igwe informed us that his first OFALA festival will be held in December 2008 as approved and scheduled by UIU Central Executive Committee, Umuoji. The festival has been tentatively scheduled for December 28th and 29th 2008 or 29th and 30th2008. All sons and daughters of Umuoji, families and friends are invited to this historic and culturally rich festival. Detailed information will be released by the publicity secretary in due course.
On March 31, 2008 this administration will complete the first six months in office. Within this short period, a lot of work has been done and progress has been made in different areas.
1) Peace and Unification Agenda has seen quite a bit of progress, climaxed by the addition of Umuojians in the Tri-State (NY/NJ/Connecticut) and Kansas City branches to UIU-USA. We understand there are other gaps to bridge and will continue to knock on doors until the day we all sing with one voice. Special thanks go to H.R.H. Igwe Dr. Cyril Enweze, Ebube Igwulube Okodu, for initiating and sponsoring the peace mission to Umuojians in the NY/NJ area. Worthy of mention is the special delegation comprising Late Dr. Michael Sunny Agina, Chief Godwin Oguchi, Chief Chuma Okeke-Ekpe and Dr. Fidelis Onyimba whose effort resulted in the successful integration. Thanks to all Umuojians in the New York – New Jersey areas for a very warm reception accorded the delegates.
2) Excellent accounting practice and procedure, evidenced by publications and statements of accounts from the finance department attest to the heightened attention to credibility and accountability. This administration maintains an open book policy and has positioned itself for future financial success.
3) The organization has seen significant improvement in the areas of communication and positive publicity with the provision of UIU-USA group e-mails and blog-site. The leadership realizes the power of effective communication. We have therefore embraced a result oriented vertical and horizontal approach to communication, minimizing to the extent possible, negativity and derogatory attacks that tear us apart.
4) Umuoji Boys High School Project remains a major high light of this administration. After thorough evaluation of the deplorable condition of the school, the national executive committee, at the teleconference held on March 9, 2008 approved the sum of $6000.00 for the first phase of this project. This will cover installation of front and back gates and erection of supporting wall and fence covering 25 partitions out of 325 partitions needed to cover the entire fence. This is a major land mark in the history of UIU-USA. Extensive feasibility study was done and quotations received from contractors. Viable financing and fund raising strategies are being explored to ensure the sustainability of this huge endeavor. Ground breaking construction work has been officially slated for commencement on or before April 5, 2008. Special thanks to the four man committee comprising Late Dr. Michael Sunny Agina, Engr. Cletus Okonkwo, Mr. Peter Azogini and Mr. Pius Okaneme. The committee worked tirelessly to provide a written recommendation which was ratified by the national executive committee.
5) Increased enrollment and renewed interest in the affairs of Umuoji Improvement Union have been seen. Rejuvenated and revitalized spirit of brotherhood among registered members and non-registered members alike speak to the resurgence of patriotism.
6) Insurance program for UIU-USA members is in its final stages. Though the insurance program remains optional, all members are strongly advised to take advantage of the program in the interest of our loved ones and our noble organization. There is an urgent need to embrace this program so we can free ourselves of the burden created by inevitable loss of a member. This can be a positive turn of events following the loss of our founding President.
Reflecting on progress made the out pouring of spirit of oneness shown by Umuojians far and near, over the death of Dr. Michael Sunny Agina stands out in our minds. The National Executive Committee and the Houston branch worked very hard to accord him funeral rites befitting of a fallen Hero. For that and many other reasons, I say thank you all for job well done.
7) The Tax exempt status of the organization is approaching final stages and pretty soon donors will be able to deduct donations from the IRS. Thanks to Mr. Frank Oligbo and Chief Chuma Okeke-Ekpe for their effort in this regard.
As the year progresses, the union will continue to focus on all cardinal objectives with emphasis on implementation of projects that impact daily life of Umuojians at home and abroad. The areas of interest include Education and Health programs. New committees will be formed to look into these programs to determine special needs and make recommendations to the national executive committee for further action.
In addition to Education and Health committees, the organization intends to create a Website committee to explore the development of a state of the art, full fledge, website. We are well endowed with human resources with respect to computer network systems and we will utilize all available information to get this program up and running in record time. Another committee of interest is Fund Raising Committee. This committee will be charged with the responsibility of developing, strategizing and master minding fund raising campaigns for our organization.
My beloved people of Umuoji, this administration has made a leap of faith. The relentless effort of the national executive committee, even in the face of adversity, has yielded unprecedented results. Though the task ahead of us is enormous, the tenacity shown by our officers and the genuine desire to surmount all obstacles on the way are good enough reasons to give them all the support needed to get the job done.
Restoration of unity, peace, love, dignity and trust to our organization remains top priority. I am therefore calling on all Umuojians in the Americas to rise above any differences, and come together as a people of one origin, common heritage and common goal. “United we Stand, divided we fall”
Long Live UIU-USA!!! Long Live UIU General!!!
May God Bless Us All.
Fidelis Onyimba, Pharm. D
National President, UIU-USA
