By PETER ANOSIKE

Umuahia Development Association (UDA), Lagos Branch, will on November 28, 2026 hold a cultural and fundraising ceremonies, which is aimed at raising N1.5 billion for the building of an ultra-modern civic centre.

According to the president of the association Hon. Israel Ubani, the venue of the event is Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Open Park, National Stadium, Surulere and under the chairmanship of John Opah.

He said that driven by shared vision of community development and cultural preservation, the association aims to establish a permanent landmark that would serve as a beacon of unity for all Umuahia indigenes residing in Lagos State and beyond.

According to him, this ambitious project underscores the association’s enduring commitment to self–reliance and collective progress, that is moving beyond mere social gatherings towards tangible lasting infrastructure.

He said that the proposed ultra-modern civic centre is designed to be a multi-functional architectural masterpiece with the capacity to host a wide range of socio-cultural and economic activities.

He added that when completed, the facility would feature a spacious event hall, conference rooms, administrative offices as well as a dedicated cultural exhibition gallery.

Hon. Ubani said that by providing a structured environment for community meetings, traditional celebrations, and youth empowerment workshops, the centre would address the long –standing need for a unified, independent space for the Umuahia people in Lagos.

His words: “Financing a project of this magnitude requires a lot of money and that is the reason for the fundraising. The members of Umuahia Development Association are therefore appealing to all Umuahia sons and daughters, friends, in-laws and well-wishers of Umuahia people, corporate partners and all to come and donate generously because team work makes dream work. Every donation made to this project represents an investment in the future of Umuahia Development Association, Lagos branch because it is our desire that those who would come after us would inherit a robust institutional legacy.”

According to him, beyond the physical structure, the civic centre is envisioned as a vital hub for networking, mentorship, and social welfare.

He said that it would provide a platform where Umuahia people can collaborate on entrepreneurial ventures, seek professional counsel, and organize welfare programs to support vulnerable members of the community.

Furthermore, he said that the centre would play a crucial role in teaching the younger generation the rich customs, language and values of Umuahia, thereby preventing cultural erosion in a fast-paced cosmopolitan environment like Lagos.