It was a day of celebration, amidst songs of praises and gratitude, as the people of Ntalaakwu community in Itumbauzo, Bende welcomed the Member representing Bende Federal Constituency, Rep. Benjamin Kalu on his arrival to commission the newly constructed Primary Health Center at Ntalaakwu.
The ceremony kicked off with an opening prayer by the oldest man in the community Elder Kalu Ndukwe, who poured out blessings on the Representative as he prayed for more grace, protection, and capacity through his journey in life and leadership.
In an opening address delivered by the President General of Ntalaakwu community, he expressed gratitude to the Representative for the Ntalaakwu Primary Health Center, remembering the suffering the people faced prior to this time in a bid to access primary health care. He further highlighted other problems currently facing the community, while calling the attention of the lawmaker to them, some of which include; a standard oil mill, standard modern market, and good roads.
Also speaking at the event, one of the Stakeholders of the community, Hon. Ukandu thanked the honorable member for his efforts in the development of the constituency through the various projects he has attracted. He also pleaded with the Representative to pay heed to the dilapidated school and market buildings as it will help the community.
In a special address by the Chairman Ntalaakwu Progressive Union, Rev. Chikaodiri Eke, commended Rep. Kalu for the ongoing construction of the Itumbauzo road, adding that this was one of the requests he made on his visit to the office of the Representative in Abuja, he also thanked the lawmaker for the palliative measures he attracted which is ongoing at the Bende-Umuahia road while emphasizing that this is the first time quality representation is being felt by Bende constituents, he further prayed for God’s guidance and grace to grant him success in all his endeavors.
Rep. Benjamin Kalu who began his speech with songs of praise and worship thanked all the leaders, women, and children of Ntalaakwu for coming out en masse to celebrate such a remarkable day, especially thanked the oldest man for the blessings and prayers he showered on him. Rep. Kalu recalled his visit to the community on the Ist of January 2019, remembering the pathetic state which the health center was at the time when vowed to change that situation.
He mentioned that the Ntalaakwu Health Center is the biggest in the entire Bende Federal Constituency, and by God’s grace will be furnished with modern equipment to provide needed services for the people. The lawmaker reassured the people of his promise to see that the rehabilitation of Itumbauzo road is gradually completed, as the third phase has just commenced. He also acknowledged the requests made by the various stakeholders who had spoken, assuring them of his commitment to continue doing his best for Constituency.
Rep. Kalu specially recognized members of other Political parties who were present at the ceremony, reiterating that the dividends of democracy that he has brought to the Constituency belong to everyone regardless of party affiliation.
The Honorable Member, his entourage, leaders, and members of the Ntalaakwu Ancient Kingdom further proceeded to commission the facility, amidst prayers and words of affirmation, the project was commissioned in the name of the Father, Son, and the Holy Spirit.
