A publication by Arogbo-Ibe Voice Reporters, marking the Day 5th of the 2025 Amaseikumor Festival.
As the 2025 Amaseikumor Festival progresses into its fifth day in the vibrant town of Oporoza, ancestral home of the Gbaramatu Kingdom, it has become clear that this year’s celebration is not only a cultural spectacle but also a shining symbol of humanitarian advancement. What has particularly stood out is the world-class standard and professionalism displayed in the free medical outreach embedded in this year’s festival – an initiative that deserves resounding commendation.
Organised under the leadership of High Chief (Engr.) Kestin Pondi, Managing Director of Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited, in collaboration with the Esther Matthew Tonlagha Foundation and the Mom and Infant Care Network, the outreach has brought relief and renewed hope to hundreds of individuals. From free cataract and pterygium surgeries to dental extractions and general health screenings, the services rendered have truly redefined community healthcare support.
To perform 50 eye surgeries in a single day, and over 150 since the commencement of the outreach, is no small feat. Even more remarkable is the compassionate and meticulous care with which each case was handled by specialists like Dr. Olowo Layemo and his ophthalmology team. Their devotion to restoring sight to the visually impaired is a testament to the fact that medicine, when paired with passion, becomes a gift of light.
Similarly, the dental team, ably led by Dr. Asemota Festus, attended to over 150 patients suffering from severe dental pain and decay. The procedures were not only timely but executed with a level of clinical excellence that would rival any urban medical facility. Scaling, polishing, and oral hygiene education further demonstrated the outreach’s preventive health approach – a long-term strategy that we at Arogbo-Ibe Voice Reporters applaud wholeheartedly.
The foresight of including four medical stands and mobile ambulance services, as coordinated by Dr. Clarkson Agagha, underscored a robust and proactive healthcare strategy. Beyond basic care, the team responded swiftly to an emergency case, affirming the readiness and capacity of the professionals deployed.
What makes this outreach truly historic is the manner in which it integrates cultural celebration with life-saving services – ensuring that festivity and humanity go hand in hand. It reflects a bold and inspiring vision that festivals should not only entertain but heal; not only honour heritage but safeguard lives.
We especially recognise and appreciate the philanthropic roles played by High Chief Government Ekpemupolo (Tompolo), Engr. Kestin Pondi, and partnering foundations whose investments made this outreach a reality. Their efforts have touched lives in remote creeks and communities that might otherwise remain unseen by mainstream healthcare delivery.
At Arogbo-Ibe Voice Reporters, we believe this model should be adopted across the Niger Delta and beyond – where cultural festivals become vehicles for delivering quality social services. Let 205 Amaseikumor stand as a blueprint for community-centered development, and let those behind this exemplary outreach know that their service will not be forgotten.
The smiles of restored sight, the relief of healed mouths, and the joy of lives revived – these are the true victories of this year’s festival.
Editorial Board
Arogbo-Ibe Voice Reporters
“Telling Our Stories, Preserving Our Future”
