Uromi came alive on Good Friday as compassion met action when the Uromi Like Minds Initiative, ULMI, once again demonstrated what true community leadership looks like through its 2026 Annual Easter Outreach, a humanitarian intervention that has now become a defining symbol of hope across Esanland.
In a time when many vulnerable families continue to battle economic hardship, neglect, and the devastating effects of insecurity, ULMI stepped forward with not just words, but tangible impact. The organisation distributed food items, essential supplies, and welfare materials valued at nearly N5 million to some of the most vulnerable members of society, reinforcing its commitment to uplifting lives and restoring dignity.
Founded in 2020, ULMI has steadily evolved into one of the most influential grassroots organisations in Esanland, driven by a clear vision of community development, youth empowerment, and humanitarian service. Beyond seasonal outreach programmes, the organisation has continued to invest in long term initiatives that promote social cohesion and development.
Among its flagship programmes is the widely celebrated ULMI Secondary School Football Tournament for boys and girls, a platform that not only nurtures young sporting talents but also fosters unity, discipline, and healthy competition among youths. In addition, the organisation’s Good Service Award for teachers has become a beacon of encouragement for educators, recognising excellence and dedication in shaping future generations.
However, this year’s Easter outreach carried even deeper significance, coming on the heels of a bold and strategic intervention in the fight against insecurity in Esanland. In a remarkable show of commitment to community safety, ULMI recently invested close to N10 million in the procurement of a security drone, which was officially donated to the Esan Youth Awareness Movement Security Network.
This intervention is widely seen as a proactive response to the growing concerns over kidnapping, violent crimes, and general insecurity within the region. At a time when many communities feel exposed and underserved, ULMI’s action has been described by stakeholders as both timely and visionary.
During the Good Friday outreach, the organisation visited several critical care centres across Uromi, bringing relief and comfort to residents. Beneficiaries included inmates of the Home of Mercy and Grace, an old people’s home, where elderly residents received food items and care packages. The team also visited two traditional bone healing centres in Iruele, operated by Benjamin Thomas Elimian and Mr Ova, where patients undergoing treatment were not left out of the gesture of love.
The outreach train further extended to the Holy Trinity Orphanage Home located on Obadan Street, Ebhebe, Uromi, where children were visibly overwhelmed with joy as they received supplies and interacted with members of the organisation.
Speaking through the Project Director and Secretary of the Welfare Committee, Hon. Matthias Igberaese, the Executive Chairman of ULMI, Deacon Ambassador Darlington Okpebholo Ray, delivered a heartfelt goodwill message that captured the true essence of the season.
He emphasised that Easter is far more than a religious celebration, noting that it represents sacrifice, compassion, and unconditional love, values that must be reflected in how individuals and organisations treat the less privileged in society.
He called on well meaning individuals, stakeholders, and leaders across Esanland to rise to the responsibility of supporting the downtrodden, stressing that collective effort remains the only sustainable path to building a stronger and more inclusive community.
The chairman further reiterated that ULMI remains committed to its founding principles of service, unity, and development, assuring that the organisation will continue to expand its interventions in areas that directly impact the lives of the people.
For many beneficiaries, the outreach was not just about the material support received, but the sense of belonging and recognition it restored. In a society where the vulnerable are often forgotten, ULMI’s presence sent a powerful message that they are not alone.
As Esanland continues to navigate complex social and security challenges, initiatives like this stand as a reminder that real change often begins at the community level, driven by individuals and groups who choose action over indifference.
Once again, ULMI has not only celebrated Easter, it has defined it.
