President Bola Tinubu extended his heartfelt congratulations to Eko Club International (ECI) on the occasion of its 25th anniversary, recognizing the organization as the foremost global association of Lagos indigenes, wielding significant and enduring influence. He acknowledged his personal involvement in the club’s inception, revealing that the idea for ECI was conceived during his years in exile. Tinubu commended the club’s unwavering dedication to its founding principles of promoting harmony, advocating for good governance, and supporting development initiatives across various sectors. He expressed his deep appreciation for ECI’s tangible contributions to the betterment of Lagos and its people.
The President specifically highlighted ECI’s significant role in promoting Lagos’s rich cultural heritage, a vital aspect of the state’s identity. He praised their sponsorship of medical outreach programs, extending healthcare access to underserved communities. Furthermore, he lauded their commitment to education through scholarships for underprivileged students, enabling them to pursue their academic aspirations. Tinubu also acknowledged ECI’s support for skill acquisition initiatives, empowering individuals with valuable skills for economic self-sufficiency, and their backing of entrepreneurship, fostering economic growth and innovation.
President Tinubu marveled at ECI’s remarkable growth and expansion over the past 25 years, noting its impressive network of 25 active chapters spanning the USA, UK, Canada, and Europe. He asserted that ECI’s unique history, combined with its impactful activities, has firmly positioned the organization for continued influence across generations. This sustained impact, he believed, would continue to shape the landscape of Lagos and its diaspora communities.
The President’s message also served as a call to action, urging ECI members to remain steadfast in their commitment to the organization’s mission. He encouraged them to reflect on the achievements of the past quarter-century, using this reflection as a springboard for even greater contributions in the future. He envisioned ECI continuing to play a crucial role in the progress and development of Lagos, both within the state and among its global diaspora.
Tinubu expressed his gratitude for the unwavering support of ECI members, recognizing their dedication to the organization’s goals and their contributions to its success. He extended his best wishes for ECI’s continued prosperity and an even greater impact in the years to come. This continued success, he emphasized, would be crucial for the advancement of Lagos and the well-being of its people, both at home and abroad.
In essence, President Tinubu’s congratulatory message was a testament to ECI’s significant contributions over the past 25 years. It served as both an acknowledgement of past achievements and an encouragement for future endeavors. His words underscored the importance of ECI’s role in promoting unity, fostering development, and upholding the rich cultural heritage of Lagos, both within the state and across its global community. He envisioned ECI continuing to flourish and make even greater strides in the years to come, solidifying its position as a leading organization of Lagos indigenes worldwide.
