Ozigbo visits, consoles Salvation Army on death of 13 officers in accident

The Salvation Army Nigeria Territory received a special condolence visit from philanthropist and globally respected CEO, Valentine Ozigbo at the Shomolu, Lagos headquarters of the Christian Evangelical organisation on Monday, July 24, 2023.

The visit, aimed to show empathy for the recent tragic accident that resulted in the loss of 13 young officers of the Salvation Army and left five persons in critical condition at specialist centres, was facilitated by Apostle Nnamdi Mbaigbo, Founder of the Tropical Gate Foundation for Sustainable Development.

Among the Salvation Army officials who lost their lives in the tragic road accident were Major Emem Udobong, Major Sunday Sampson, Major Uyime Ekere, Major Emem Obot, Captain Edet Akpanumana, Lieutenant Margate Nsima, and others.

Ozigbo was warmly welcomed by Territorial Leaders Commissioner Daniel Kasuso and Chief Secretary Lt Col Christian Azubuike.

In a heartfelt address, Commissioner Kasuso expressed gratitude for Ozigbo’s visit. He acknowledged the difficulties faced by the organisation following the tragedy and the immeasurable pain felt by the victims’ families, comrades, and friends of the departed.

The Salvation Army Territorial Commander also expressed how Ozigbo’s visit brought a sense of hope and joy to the grieving organisation.

“Indeed, these times have been challenging for our organisation, and the pain of our loss is immense. However, your visit today brings us joy and hope. We appreciate you taking time out of your busy schedule to stand with us in our time of need,” said Commissioner Kasuso.

Ozigbo, who is a 2021 Anambra Gubernatorial Candidate and also a Special Adviser to Mr Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s Presidential Candidate, referred to Obi’s condolence tweet about the tragic incident, stating, “His Excellency Peter Obi would be glad that I am here to pay physical condolences in addition to his virtual ones.”

He also extolled the departed and offered prayers for the repose of their souls while committing to joining the Salvation Army family in their upcoming special prayers towards the funeral services on Thursday.

“We were all shocked and saddened when we heard the tragic news. The extent of this loss is monumental as all our departed brothers and sisters were devoted and faithful individuals,” Ozigbo said.

“Through their steadfast faith and diligent service, they profoundly impacted the Salvation Army Nigeria and the Body of Christ. I am here to express deep condolences to you, Commissioner Kasuso and the entire grieving Salvation Army.

“I pray for comfort and solace for those mourning and for the departed to find eternal rest in God’s heavenly kingdom,” Ozigbo added.

Kasuso prayed for Ozigbo during the visit, wishing that the philanthropist and business leader would receive empathy throughout his life journey, for he had shown empathy to those in sorrow.

The visit concluded with a pronounced blessing by the Territorial Leaders, Commissioner Daniel Kasuso and Chief Secretary Lt Col Christian Azubuike.

Other officers present were Major Ifeanyi Obi, Training Principal, Lieutenant Austin Ekpobo, Lieutenant Emeka Anozie, Major Eze, Territorial Property Secretary, Major Anumba, Territorial Youth Secretary, and others, also came out to show their appreciation for Ozigbo’s act of solidarity.

Valentine Ozigbo is the Founder of the eponymously named Valentine Chineto Ozigbo (VCO) Foundation, a leading Nigerian non-profit setting the pace for social intervention in youth development, women empowerment, technology education, and international sports development.