By : Ike Philip Abiagom
The Duchess Club of Ibusa, a renowned non-political association of enlightened married women of Ibusa origin and women married into the community, on Saturday unveiled a series of community development projects across various quarters in Igbuzo, Oshimili North Local Government Area of Delta State.
Founded on June 20, 1982, in Benin City, then Bendel State, by Duchess Commy Obiajulu Abuah, the women’s organization has over the years earned admiration for its humanitarian and developmental programmes aimed at improving the welfare of the people of Igbuzo and neighbouring communities.
The club, which has grown to seven branches across different locations, has consistently championed initiatives in education, healthcare, social welfare, and grassroots development.
The latest projects were initiated by the Lagos Branch under the distinguished leadership of Duchess Agatha Iyabo Roxy-Okechukwu (née Sualeze) and later presented to the national headquarters for approval. Funds for the projects were sourced through contributions from sons and daughters of Igbuzo and other well-wishers.
The first phase of the project took place at the Ogboli Primary Health Centre, where the club donated a borehole and eight hospital beds to improve healthcare delivery in the area. The projects were Commissioned and unveiled by the Chairman of the Delta State Contributory Health Commission, Dr. Austin Obidi, alongside the Odogwu of Igbuzo, High Chief Charles Okonkwo.
The second phase was held at the Umuisagba Primary Health Centre, where the association donated Ten(10) hospital beds and installed a complete solar power system to provide electricity for the facility. The projects were unveiled and commissioned by the Ide of Igbuzo, High Chief Austin Izagba, in the presence of other dignitaries and community members.
Speaking during the event, the Lagos Branch Chairman, Duchess Agatha Iyabo Roxy-Okechukwu, said members of the club were united in their resolve to positively impact the lives of people in Igbuzo by giving back to the community.
She commended members of the project committee led by Duchess (Dr.) Vivian Henry-Ajudua (née Njideka Obi Okpoho) for their dedication and commitment towards the successful execution of the projects.
According to her, As members of this noble club, we resolved to touch lives in our community through meaningful projects that will improve healthcare services and the wellbeing of our people.
Also speaking, the National President of the Duchess Club of Ibusa, Duchess Florence Nwamaka Abdul (née Ajufo), said the projects were part of efforts to improve water supply, sanitation, and healthcare services in the community health centres.
She appreciated club members, donors, partners, volunteers, and especially the matrons of the association for their support and cooperation in ensuring the success of the initiative.
Among prominent members and dignitaries acknowledged during the event were the National Secretary, Duchess Philomena Ngozi Oputteh of the Benin Branch; Duchess Agatha Iyabo Roxy-Okechukwu of the Lagos Branch; Mrs. Okonkwo, the Ibusa Chaplain; Mrs. Pat Olaitoh of the Ibadan Branch; and Mrs. Josephine Egbochionye of the Abuja Branch, who represented the Abuja Branch President.
The event attracted traditional leaders, healthcare workers, women groups, youths, and residents who praised the Duchess Club for its sustained commitment to community development and humanitarian service in Igbuzo.