By Muhammad Sani Abdullahi
The BUK Alumni Association, FCT Chapter, turned an ordinary weekend into a profound moment of intergenerational connection as it visited an Old People’s Home in Abuja, donating items worth over N1.3 million and spending quality time with residents, including a 102-year-old woman, retired nurses, former NNPC staff, farmers, and teachers.
What began as an invitation to members to pause and reflect on the sacrifices of the elderly quickly became a heartwarming outreach that saw members engage the residents in conversation, share laughter, and offer comfort. The BUKAA, FCT chapter chairman, Alhassan Mohammed noted that the visit was more than just an event but an opportunity to remind the elderly that they are not forgotten.
According to him, the association had initially appealed to members to give back with love and presence, stressing that sometimes one’s presence alone can mean more than any gift, and the response was overwhelming. Within just three days, members contributed N1,315,000 in cash, bought and donated material items of equal value, making the total impact of the visit worth a million. During the visit, members had the privilege of meeting remarkable elders, including a 102-year-old woman, a retired nurse, former NNPC staff, and retired farmers and teachers –individuals who, the association noted, have contributed immensely to nation-building.
Mohammed expressed deep appreciation for the generosity of members, praying, “May your kindness be richly rewarded,” and added that for those who missed the visit, a short video and a compendium of the event have been made available. In a separate development.
On the other hand, the association announced the extension of membership for its internal Toastmasters Club, which was integrated about a year ago by the Executive Committee to strengthen the communication and leadership skills of members. The club, known as the BUK Alumni Association Toastmasters Club, has over the past year helped many members grow into more confident speakers and emerging leaders through structured learning and consistent practice. As a new season begins, the association is inviting more members to take advantage of the platform, noting that Toastmasters is a global organization established in 1920 with over 8 million people across more than 150 countries who have benefited from its proven approach to personal and professional development.
Alhassan said alumni interested in joining the club are encouraged to reach out to Jamila Ahmed (BUK 1999, Mass Communication), Club President, or Engr. A. S. Yunusa (BUK 2019, MSc, Structural Engineering), Vice President.