leo disrict 404a2 donates open stall at ekeya main

  location: ekeya main market to ekaya community, okobo, akwa ibom state | Date: 06-13-2025

With a commitment to humanitarian service and community development, Leo District 404A2 Nigeria, under the visionary leadership of District President Leo Ekpeita Edet, embarked on a transformative project aimed at improving the lives of the people of Okobo, Akwa Ibom State. This vision materialized in the form of a newly constructed open stall facility at Ekeya Main Market, officially commissioned on Friday, June 13, 2025.

Before this intervention, traders and buyers at the market endured harsh weather conditions—exposed to both sun and rain with no form of protection. For years, they operated in discomfort, holding on only to the hope of a better trading environment. Through this noble effort, that hope was brought to life.

The commissioning ceremony was a day filled with joy and gratitude, as market men and women expressed heartfelt appreciation for the significant improvement in their working conditions. The event was graced by prominent dignitaries including the District Governor of Lions District 404A2 Nigeria, Lion Sir Maurice Ibok, NLCF, PMJF, PhD, and several other esteemed Lions and Leos, community leaders, government officials, and youth representatives.

Leo Ekpeita Edet, in his address, extended profound appreciation to all who supported the project—acknowledging the roles played by traditional leaders, partner organizations, and particularly the Excellence Community Education Welfare Scheme (ECEWS), represented by its Chief Financial Officer, Lion Heir Ntiah. Their unwavering support and generosity were instrumental in the project s success.

The District Governor commended the Leo District team for their commitment and urged the beneficiaries to ensure proper maintenance of the facility. He emphasized the importance of sustainability, noting that service delivery must be matched with responsibility and care.

Representing the voice of the community, His Highness Chief Edet Etim Edet, Village Head of Obot Inwang and Chairman of the Ekeya Council of Chiefs, expressed deep gratitude to the Leos for delivering a project that would benefit generations to come. He described the initiative as a gift of hope and progress for the people.

This project goes beyond brick and mortar—it is a mission-driven initiative with clear social and economic objectives:

• To enhance local economic activity and improve the well-being of community members,

• To support humanitarian efforts as championed by Lions Club International,

• To boost agriculture by encouraging local farmers to produce more with a reliable market outlet,

• To foster entrepreneurship and create a platform for business growth,

• To generate job opportunities for youths in the community,

• And to complement government efforts in improving rural infrastructure and welfare.

The commissioning ceremony featured key highlights such as ribbon cutting, inspection of the new stalls by stakeholders, the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between donors and beneficiaries, and the formal handover of the facility to the Ekeya Village  .

Ultimately, the project stands as a shining example of what can be achieved through purpose-driven leadership and collective goodwill. It underscores the Leo motto of “Leadership, Experience, Opportunity,” and reinforces the powerful message that true leadership begins where you are, with what you have, in service to those around you.