By Ese Obote-Ogwu
Photo: The Commissioner for Economic Planning Mr. Sonny Ekedayen (R) in a recreational mood with the retired Permanent Secretary Ministry of Economic Planning Mr. Frank Isume(L) after handing over the recreational facilities to Joy in Africa Foundation (JAF) School of Special Needs Okpanam Road Asaba, Delta State.
The Delta State Commissioner for Economic Planning, Mr. Sonny Ekedayen, has emphasized that investing in people is one of life’s most enduring legacies.
He made this statement during the presentation of a newly designed and fully equipped playground to the management of Joy in Africa Foundation (JAF) School for Special Needs, located on Okpanam Road, Asaba.
The playground was donated by the retired Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Economic Planning, Mr. Frank Isume.
Speaking at the event, Mr. Ekedayen remarked, “We are here today to honor one of our own, who has served the Delta State Government for 35 years. Traditionally, colleagues and friends contribute towards a send-forth celebration, but in his wisdom, Mr. Isume requested that all funds raised be redirected to improving the school. That is why we are here today.”
Commending Mr. Isume’s selfless gesture, the Commissioner added, “Through his generosity, these children now have access to recreational facilities and a beautiful space to keep them engaged and happy.”
In his goodwill message, the Delta State Head of Service, Mr. Reginald Bayoko, mni, reflected on the values of love and patience, stating, “JAF is my home, and we have supported them in our little way. I deeply appreciate the Honorable Commissioner and his team for their support because, without teamwork and synergy, there would be dysfunction. I am also grateful to Mr. Isume for his foresight in making this happen. May God bless him abundantly.”
Similarly, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Education, Mr. Austin Oghoro described Mr. Isume as “a man who has chosen to be wise by impacting the lives of JAF children. I have known him for over 35 years, and his generosity has been unwavering.”
Speaking on behalf of Mr. Frank Isume, Mr. Karo Ovemeso revealed that a WhatsApp group had been created for contributions to celebrate Mr. Isume’s retirement. However, upon learning about it, Mr. Isume insisted that there should be no merriment and directed that all funds be used to equip a playground for the children at JAF.
Mr. Ovemeso stated, “The cash donations were used to purchase carpet grass, a bouncing castle, a table tennis board, bicycles, and other recreational facilities for the children.” He also expressed gratitude to all who contributed to making the project a reality.
Expressing her heartfelt gratitude, the proprietress of JAF, Mrs. Joy Iselobo- Okonjo stated, “On behalf of the children in our care, I extend my profound gratitude to Mr. Frank Isume, the commissioner for Economic Planning and all who made this come to pass, for this wonderful sensory playground. Words cannot fully express our appreciation.”
Present at the event were Mrs. Florence Isume, wife of the retired Permanent Secretary; Mrs. Vivian Bayoko, wife of the Head of Service; directors and management staff of the Ministry of Economic Planning; committee of friends; and retired Permanent Secretaries.
The highlight of the occasion was the official commissioning and presentation of the recreational facilities to the proprietress of JAF.