By Nwafor Okafor
A former aviation minister, Osita Chidoka, clocked 51 years old on July 18.While announcing his new age in a statement on Monday, the former Corps Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Corps( FRSC) called for alms for two institutions he described as being dear to his heart.
He enjoined Nigerians not to despair, expressing optimism that the future was bright, describing himself as an incurable optimist.
He said, ” I turn 51 years old today July 18, 2022.I am grateful and appreciative of all the good wishes, messages, calls and deep expression of love from family, friends and acquaintances. I thank you all.
“On Saturday 16 July, I ran 21km with the Abuja Charity Half Marathon. It was a tough one considering I was told about it two days before the event. I managed to complete the 21km in 2hrs.24mins. A poor time for me and about 27mins slower than the average for men my age who use tomtom running watch. A life lesson renewed, training is key to performance.
“As I turn 51, I am convinced that the future is bright. I am an incurable optimist who believes in the unrelenting progress of mankind. No matter how gloomy today is, the reality is that mankind ultimately overcome economic setbacks, diseases, famines, wars, pandemics and natural disasters. There are fewer wars than we had 30 years ago, more people would live longer than their parents and cures would be found for more illnesses. I will not and I advise you do not give in to cynicism and hopelessness. In the end, the human spirit will inevitably triumph.
He added, “As an optimist, I also seek to contribute my quota to making the world a better place. I ran the marathon because it is a charity run and for my birthday I have elected to raise money for two charities dear to my heart.
The two charities are Little Sisters of the Poor Enugu and the Road safety NGO KRSD. The Little Sisters of the Poor Convent runs a home for the elderly at Enugu and need our support to continue to provide this invaluable service to those who need it and they are many. The Faith-based organisation run by
“KRSD was founded by Hon Justice Monica Mensem, President of the Court of Appeal, after the tragic death of her son by a hit and run driver. The NGO is focused on improving the safety of vulnerable road users ~ pedestrians, cyclists and children. They need our support to continue to render incalculable service to humanity. The account details are:
While providing account numbers for the two freewill donations, Chidoka said “No amount is small and please send a message to me, if you donate. I have donated.”
