It was a moment of joy, gratitude, and deep reflection as Ambassador David Ayoka Atim commissioned three boreholes and provided free medical support to the people of Odajie-Mbube in Ogoja Local Government Area of Cross River State. The humanitarian outreach was carried out in memory of his late father, Elder D.D. Vanco, a man widely remembered for his pioneering contributions to the development of the community.
The project, which also featured the distribution of food items including bags of rice, as well as cash donations to the chiefs of Odajie-Mbube and the wider community, has significantly improved access to clean water and basic healthcare for residents.
Speaking on behalf of the traditional rulers and chiefs, Chief Achara Anoh expressed heartfelt appreciation to Ambassador Atim for not forgetting his people. He prayed for God’s continued blessings upon him, describing the intervention as a true demonstration of love, compassion, and commitment to community development. Community leaders further offered prayers and sang songs of appreciation in honour of the ambassador.
Adding his voice, elder statesman and respected community leader, Chief Peter Ojie, described the intervention as uncommon and extraordinary, especially coming from someone who holds no government appointment. He stated that he is confident Ambassador David Ayoka Atim will always have the interest of Odajie-Mbube at heart, noting that the ambassador acts and thinks far beyond his age. Chief Ojie said he was proud of Ambassador Atim’s actions and convinced of his genuine intentions for his people.
According to him, the gesture did not come as a surprise, as the late Elder D.D. Vanco, father of Ambassador David Atim, was known to be a trailblazer and pioneer of many positive developments that benefitted the community during his lifetime.
Earlier in the programme, Pastor John Eweh offered the opening prayer, describing the initiative as unprecedented, especially because it came from a private individual with no government backing. He prayed that God would continue to reward Ambassador Atim for his generosity and love for humanity.
In a deeply emotional moment, Ambassador David Ayoka Atim also paid a visit to his late father’s grave, where he spent some quiet time in reflection, honouring the legacy of Elder D.D. Vanco.
Also speaking at the event, Hon. Mark Egbelo commended Ambassador Atim for his selfless service, stressing that the project was not sponsored by any government but driven purely by a genuine and compassionate heart for the people.
In his remarks, Ambassador David Ayoka Atim urged members of the community to embrace peace, love, and unity, emphasizing the importance of continuous prayers for their leaders. He reaffirmed his commitment to the welfare of his people and encouraged communal harmony as a foundation for sustainable development.
The event concluded on a high note, with community members pledging to safeguard the boreholes and other benefits, as songs of gratitude filled the air in appreciation of a son who chose to honour his roots and uplift his people.
