It was a day of joy and gratitude in Onicha-Uku and surrounding communities in Aniocha North Local Government Area of Delta State as Tony Elumelu and his family distributed large quantities of rice and beans to residents, institutions, and community groups.
The distribution took place on Monday, December 29, 2025, at Onicha-Uku, the country home of the renowned businessman and philanthropist. Beneficiaries included indigenes and non-indigenes, orphanage homes, members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), journalists, and institutions such as the College of Nursing and School of Medical Sciences.
Representing Mr Tony Elumelu, Mr Abdul Ramon, Head of Media and External Relations at UBA, said the gesture was a family-driven annual tradition aimed at supporting communities during the festive season. He explained that the 2025 outreach was larger than last year’s, with more beneficiaries and increased quantities of food items. He also conveyed Christmas and New Year greetings from Mr Tony Elumelu, his wife Dr Awele Elumelu, and the entire Elumelu family, stressing that the family remains committed to the welfare of their people.
The Chairman of Aniocha North Local Government Area, Hon. Emma Bazim Chinye, commended the Elumelu family for the timely intervention and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to improving the welfare of residents at the grassroots. He noted that the distribution was carefully planned and properly supervised to ensure transparency, fairness, and accountability, and urged beneficiaries to make good use of the items.
Speaking on behalf of the Traditional Council, Chief Stephen Osakwe, PhD, the Ede of Onicha-Uku, described the donation as a major contribution to the community. He expressed deep appreciation to the Elumelu family and prayed for God’s continued blessings, prosperity, and protection upon them.
Some beneficiaries who spoke praised the generosity of the Elumelu family and offered prayers for them. Mr Jude Onwenna from Ifhiekbe Quarter, Onicha-Uku, and Mr Lambert Amaefule of Abaifoli LGA, Imo State, said the gesture brought great relief during the festive period and showed genuine love for humanity.
Other beneficiaries also expressed gratitude. Mrs Florence Mmakwe, Matron of Grey Centre Orphanage Home, thanked God for the life of Mr Elumelu and prayed for his continued good health and strength. Mrs Maria Ngozi Olisa, Provost of the College of Nursing, Onicha-Uku, appreciated the family’s consistent support to the institution, noting that their assistance has helped the school function smoothly.
The exercise ended peacefully, with community leaders and beneficiaries expressing appreciation to Tony Elumelu and his family for spreading hope, relief, and festive joy across communities in Aniocha North Local Government Area.
