The Chairman of Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Delta State Council, Comrade Michael Ikeogwu, has enjoined wealthy Nigerians to stem the tide of capital flight by investing in businesses in the country.
Comrade Ikeogwu gave the advice when he led members of the Executives of the NUJ Delta State Council on a courtesy visit to a multi sectoral businessman, Engr Marvis Odioko, at his office in Asaba as part of the council’s initiative to partner with individuals towards enhancement of journalism in the state and the country.
Comrade Ikeogwu praised the sterling leadership quality and charisma of Engr Odioko who has over 176 staff in his employ and called on other businessmen to emulate him.
The union leader also noted the ingenuity of Engr Odoko which enabled him to diversify his business to include; civil engineering, oil and gas, real estate, hospitality and potable water (table water).
He stated that by investing heavily in various sectors of the economy and creating employment opportunities for the teeming youths in the state and beyond, adding that Nigerians, he has demonstrated in practical terms that he is a patriot.
Comrade Ikeogwu said, “The insecurity in the country is an indication that people are not productively engaged. I want to commend you for your initiative to take some of our youths off the streets by creating jobs for them.”
“You are a rich man with a heart of gold. Not too many rich people have the passion to give back to society, but in your own case, you are not only sponsoring so many less privileged persons in schools but also paying salaries to over 30 widows every month.”
“We recognise what you are doing, that is why we are here to encourage you the more. And part of our partnership plan with you is to regularly patronise your [businesses].
“We will also need to tell your good stories so that other well-meaning Nigerians will emulate your kind gestures”.
Engr. Odioko, while expressing appreciation to the union leaders for the kind words; said that he derives joy in making positive impact on peoples. He revealed that he ‘became a man’ at the age of 14 when he lost his father, and had to struggle to grow up.
“I told God to use me to stand for those that cannot stand for themselves. That is why I will always be a positive influence to anybody I come in contact with”, Odioko said.
Speaking further, he eulogized his wife for being the pillar of his success, and added that he would continue to respect her for standing with him when he was ‘a nobody’.
He assured NUJ of his partnership, stating that the media is indispensable in every sphere of life.