CORRESPONDENTS’ CHAPEL NUJ, MARK WEEK WITH VISIT TO HOME FOR THE ELDERLY IN PORT HARCOURT
By Emeka Amaefula
The Correspondents’ Chapel of the Rivers State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has called on Nigerians to show greater love, care, and support for elderly citizens, describing them as valuable members of society who deserve dignity and attention in their old age.
The appeal was made by the chapel’s Chairman, Comrade Amaechi Okonkwo, on Thursday 21st May 2026, when members of the chapel paid a solidarity visit to the Home for the Elderly, operated by the Catholic Diocese of Port Harcourt. The visit formed part of activities lined up for the 2026 Correspondents’ Week celebration.
Speaking during the visit, Comrade Okonkwo said the chapel considered it necessary to extend kindness and practical support to the elderly by donating essential items, including foodstuffs and toiletries.
He noted that visits to charity homes and other vulnerable groups have become a regular and cherished feature of Correspondents’ Week activities. According to him, members of the chapel strongly believe that people living in such facilities deserve to celebrate, feel loved, and appreciated despite their circumstances.
“These elderly citizens have contributed their quota to the development of our society. It is our duty as journalists and responsible citizens to give back to them through acts of kindness and continuous advocacy for their welfare,” Comrade Okonkwo added.
Receiving the donations on behalf of the home, the Matron, Rev. Sr. Maryjane Raphael, expressed deep appreciation to the Correspondents’ Chapel for the thoughtful gesture. She prayed for God’s continued blessings, protection, and success upon the journalists.
Sr. Raphael explained that the Home for the Elderly is open to all persons above the age of 70, irrespective of religious affiliation, tribe, or social status. She commended various organisations, corporate bodies, and individuals who have continued to support the facility through regular visits, donations, and material assistance.
Items donated by the Correspondents’ Chapel included several bags of rice, vegetable oil, milk, and assorted toiletries.
The colourful visit featured a warm interactive session with the cheerful elderly residents, who shared life experiences and expressed gratitude to the visiting journalists. It also included the formal presentation of the donated items and special prayers for the continued good health, strength, and long life of both the residents and members of the Correspondents’ Chapel.
The Correspondents’ Chapel pledged to sustain its support for the home and other vulnerable groups in the state while using its platform to consistently advocate for improved welfare and policies that cater to the needs of senior citizens across Nigeria.
———–Emeka Amaefula —-+234(0)8111813069—.
