Matilda Omonaiye/
Unity, culture and vibrant communal spirit took centre stage on Sunday as the Women Wing of the Nkanu Progressive Union (NPU), Ibadan branch, hosted its 2025 end-of-year party in grand style, marking a historic first for the association.
The colourful celebration, held on December 14 in Ibadan, was the first time the Women Wing independently organised the Union’s annual end-of-year event. The occasion drew Nkanu indigenes resident in the city, alongside family members and friends, in an atmosphere rich with glamour, cultural display, music, dance and an impressive spread of food and drinks.
A major highlight of the event was the official unveiling of the maiden edition of the Nkanu Progressive Union Women Wing Brochure, a publication that chronicles the activities, growth and contributions of the women’s arm of the association over the years.
Speaking at the event, President of the Nkanu Progressive Union, Ibadan branch, Dr. Jeremiah, praised the Women Wing for what he described as a well-planned and memorable celebration, noting that it reflected the enduring values of unity and service upon which the Union was founded.
According to him, the NPU, established in Ibadan in 1968, has remained a vital platform for solidarity among Nkanu indigenes, offering spiritual, physical and financial support to members in times of need.
“This gathering is significant because we are here to thank God for His protection over our members. Since 1968, the Nkanu Progressive Union has served as a unifying force for our people. Whenever a member faces challenges, the Union stands by that person in every way,” he said.
Dr. Jeremiah also highlighted the Union’s internal loan scheme designed to support members engaged in business, especially to help them expand, stressing that the association remains committed to the principle that charity begins at home. He further expressed appreciation to Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, for his leadership in the state.
Mrs. Florence Ani, a member of the Women Wing, described the event as a landmark achievement, saying the opportunity given to women to plan and execute the end-of-year party demonstrated their capacity and competence within the Union.
“Our Chairlady is a woman of wisdom, and she organised this party excellently. This clearly shows that whatever a man can do, a woman can also do. This time, the women played a vital role, and it means a lot to us,” she said.

Mrs. Ani added that the event was colourful and well attended, with guests treated to assorted meals, drinks and souvenirs, making the celebration memorable for all present.
In his remarks, the Patron of the Union, Dr. Boniface Ogbu, also commended the Women Wing for the successful hosting of the event, describing the organisation, turnout and overall ambience as impressive.
He explained that the Union’s end-of-year activities began with a thanksgiving service and an all-night prayer session, which culminated in the women-hosted celebration.
“The women have done excellently well. The event is beautiful and colourful. All preparations were made under the leadership of the Chairlady, and they invited us to celebrate with them. It was indeed well organised,” Dr. Ogbu said.
The celebration ended on a high note, reinforcing unity, cultural pride and the expanding leadership role of women within the Nkanu Progressive Union.
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