Rotary Club of Uyo Shelter Afrique Hosts Public Image Exhibition, Installs 9th President, and Empowers Person Living with Disability
By: Rotn. Joel Augustine Archibong, State Public Image and Editorial Rep, Akwa Ibom State
The Rotary Club of Uyo Shelter Afrique, in a landmark event, installed its 9th President, Rtn. Patricia Essien-Obot, PHF, while making strong commitments to humanitarian service, including gifting a wheelchair to Mr. Innocent James Okon, a person living with disability, and a pledge to equip him with carpentry tools for sustainable livelihood.
The well-attended Public Image Exhibition highlighted the club’s track record of community service and future plans under the leadership of President Essien-Obot. A two-time cancer survivor, Patricia’s story of resilience, courage, and faith inspired Rotarians, dignitaries, and community stakeholders who gathered to celebrate her installation.
Speaking at the event, President Essien-Obot reaffirmed her passion for service: “Service is the rent we pay while we are alive. Having survived cancer twice, I understand what it means to rise above pain and live for others. Our wealth, cars, and houses may fade, but the impact we create endures as a sustainable legacy.”
She announced the adoption of Afaha Market as the club’s star project, which will focus on constructing open market stores and providing market desks to improve local trade. She appealed for partnerships and collaborations to actualize the vision.
Chairman of the occasion, Mr. George Ene-Ita, described Rotary as one of the most reliable service organizations worldwide and praised Patricia’s proven commitment to humanitarian causes, including advocacy for girl-child education and gender-based violence prevention.
Mr. Innocent James Okon, who received the wheelchair, recounted how his chance meeting with Patricia changed his life: “This is my first wheelchair. For years, I struggled alone, often unnoticed. Rotary’s support has given me hope again.”
The event attracted key figures, including Senator Effiong Bob, who lauded Rotary’s 120 years of global impact, and Lady Mae Edmond, representing former Akwa Ibom First Lady Her Excellency, Mrs. Fumi Nkanga, who pledged continued support for the club.
Hon. Alfred Charles, Executive Chairman of Nsit Ubuim LGA, and Rt. Hon. Otobong Bob, a member of the State Assembly, commended Patricia’s leadership qualities and her drive to transform lives through Rotary’s seven areas of focus.
Several personalities received Rotary Ambassadorial appointments for their exemplary contributions:
Barr. Emem Ette, Secretary, Gender Based Violence Committee, Akwa Ibom State, Ministry of Justice – Ambassador for Peacebuilding and Conflict Resolution
Pastor Imaobong Andrew-Essien, Founder, Only Believe Care Foundation – Ambassador
Lady Idara Adiakpan, Special Assistant to the Governor, Akwa Ibom State, Stakeholder in the Creative Industry – Ambassador for Basic Education
Dr. Andy Eyo, Chief Executive Officer, Excellence Community Education Welfare Scheme, ECEWS – Ambassador for Water, Sanitation and Hygiene
Dr. Catherine Onabajo, United State Based Medical Doctor – Ambassador for Disease Prevention and Treatment
PAG Ubong Obot, Past Assistant Governor and Rotary’s Major Donor – Ambassador for Economic and Community Development
Mrs. Idongesit Etiebet, Special Adviser to the Governor, Akwa Ibom State – Ambassador for Environmental Sustainability
Awards of Excellence were also presented to distinguished personalities, including Rev. Fr. Justin M. Udomah, PAG Chibuzo Iroadu, and Prof. Ememabasi Bassey while Sir Valentine Attah and Sir Uwah Usen were honoured with Posthumous Award.
On Membership Growth and Community Impact, the event concluded with the induction of four new members, Lady Mae Edmond, Barr. Idongesit Usoro, Mrs. Glory Effanga, and Mr. Emeka Ukeabu, reflecting the club’s growing appeal and impact.
The celebration, which brought together government officials, policymakers, humanitarians, community stakeholders, and Rotarians, District Rotary leaders, underscored the Rotary Club of Uyo Shelter Afrique’s commitment to delivering impactful projects and fostering hope through service.
