Not everyone who claims a heart for community development demonstrates genuine altruism. Too often, such ventures are tainted by ulterior motives—be it political ambition or religious agendas masked as benevolence. But in Uromi, the administrative headquarters of Esan North East Local Government Area in Edo State, Nigeria, a group of visionary young men led by Chris Ebhohimen and Christian Ray Okpebholo have rewritten this narrative with a truly transformative initiative.
Together with other friends, they have built a multi-million-naira sports complex—a gift to their community born purely of selflessness and a desire to uplift others. Located on approximately 25 plots of land in Atani-Uromi, the facility features a full-sized football field and various other amenities designed to engage young people meaningfully. This groundbreaking project exemplifies the words of renowned philanthropist Andrew Carnegie: “The man who dies rich dies disgraced.” By investing in their community, these men are creating a legacy that will far outlive them.
In an exclusive phone interview with Truth Live News International, Chris Ebhohimen shared his personal journey and the inspiration behind the project. “Growing up, I always dreamed of playing football or doing something significant for the game,” he said. “But this isn’t just about football. It’s about the youth, their future, and the need to steer them away from the dangers of idleness in today’s challenging times.”
Ebhohimen’s words resonate deeply with the famous observation by Nelson Mandela: “The youth of today are the leaders of tomorrow.” The Uromi sports complex stands as a beacon of this belief, offering young people a platform to develop their talents, channel their energies positively, and build resilience against societal vices.
The timing of this initiative could not be more critical. Insecurity, unemployment, and various social vices have become pervasive challenges in Nigeria. By creating opportunities for sports and recreation, Ebhohimen and his team are providing a lifeline to Uromi’s youth—a space where they can cultivate discipline, teamwork, and a sense of purpose. As John F. Kennedy once remarked, “Children are the world’s most valuable resource and its best hope for the future.”
The sports complex also underscores the power of collaboration in community building. Ebhohimen and friends didn’t achieve this feat alone; they rallied like-minded individuals and pooled their resources to make their vision a reality. This spirit of unity serves as a reminder of Margaret Mead’s profound words: “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.”
Philanthropy, at its core, is about creating ripples of change that inspire others to act. The Uromi project is already having that effect, as neighboring communities begin to explore similar ventures. Beyond the bricks and grass of the sports complex, the project is sowing seeds of hope, resilience, and empowerment.
“Youth empowerment is not just an act of charity—it’s an investment in a society’s future,” said Chris Ebhohimen. This sentiment aligns with the philosophy of Booker T. Washington, who once noted, “If you want to lift yourself up, lift up someone else.” By focusing on the younger generation, the Uromi team is lifting not just individuals but an entire community.
The project also serves as a wake-up call to affluent individuals and organizations who possess the means to create meaningful impact. It challenges them to shift from rhetoric to action, transforming their wealth into tools for societal betterment. As Winston Churchill wisely stated, “We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give.”
Indeed, giving back to one’s community has a multiplier effect that transcends immediate beneficiaries. The Uromi sports complex will nurture athletes, entrepreneurs, and leaders who, in turn, will uplift others. This cascading impact exemplifies the African proverb: “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.”
Ebhohimen’s vision also highlights the role of sports as a unifying and transformative force. Sports break barriers, foster camaraderie, and instill values that are essential for personal and societal growth. In Uromi, the football field isn’t just a place to play—it’s a stage for dreams, discipline, and development.
The initiative challenges every reader, especially those with resources or influence, to consider how they can contribute to their communities. Whether through sports, education, or vocational training, the possibilities for impact are limitless. As Mahatma Gandhi famously said, “The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.”
In an era when headlines often highlight greed and corruption, the story of Chris Ebhohimen and his friends is a refreshing reminder of the power of purpose-driven leadership. It shows that greatness isn’t measured by what one accumulates but by what one gives back.
The Uromi sports complex is more than a physical structure—it is a symbol of hope, a call to action, and a testament to the transformative power of community-driven change. As other communities look to emulate this model, the words of Theodore Roosevelt offer a fitting conclusion: “Do what you can, with what you have, where you are.”
Watch the video of the Sports Complex HERE