From Fred Ezeh, Abuja
Helen Joseph, former official of Abuja Metropolitan Lions Club, has been installed as the pioneer President of Abuja Prestige Metro Lions Club District 404-A2.
Similarly, other pioneer officials and members of the Club were also installed, thus marking the beginning of a new season in the newly formed club and the official commencement of the activities of the Club.
At the installation ceremony in Abuja over the weekend, members from different clubs within and outside Abuja, including the Abuja Metropolitan Lions Club, Abuja Platinum Lions Club and Abuja Unity Lions Club, among others, attended the ceremony.
They congratulated the officials of the new club for the opportunity to serve humanity which is in line with the desire of the club.
The event also provided the opportunity for N50 million fundraising for the feeding, medication, provision of solar-powered borehole, and post rehabilitation care for people in the FCT vocational and rehabilitation centres in Kuchiko, Bwari, Abuja and other annual intervention activities.
The Past District Governor, Nsikan Bassey, who administered the oath on the new president and other officials, reminded them of the need to acquaint themselves with the Lions Code of Ethics and Lions International Purpose as a guide to their official activities.
He reminded them that people are passing through tough times because of the recent economic policies of the government, hence they should be compassionate and be on the lookout for each as leaders.
In her acceptance speech, the new President appreciated the Club members for the opportunity to serve, pledging to work tirelessly to build a strong foundation for the new Club.
She said: “As we embark on this exciting journey together, let us remember the values that unite us as Lions – service, kindness, and community.
As a club, we shall focus on several key service projects in the coming year, including, supporting local food banks and pantries to combat hunger and food insecurity; organising vision screenings and providing eyeglasses for underserved children and adults; partnering with schools to promote literacy and education.
“We will also engage in providing screening services for diabetes; promoting environmental sustainability through local clean-up initiatives and tree-planting projects; and many other impactful projects and activities that will not only make a positive impact in our community but also provide opportunities for us to come together, share ideas and grow as individuals.
“Our core vehicles for intervention are feeding, medications, solar powered boreholes and support for rehabilitative services. The total estimate of our projects for the 2024/2025 Lions year is N50 million only. And we have been careful and deliberate in our choice and costing of these projects.”
She appealed to the members within and outside the club to get involved, share talents and help shape the direction of the club and the community. “Let us strive to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those around us. Together, let us write a remarkable story of compassion, dedication and service to others,” she appealed.