In a massive demonstration of compassion and community service, Dr Marshall Umoren, Founder of the Hightower Humanity Foundation, brought joy and renewed hope to over 350 persons with disabilities during a Yuletide outreach held on Boxing Day, December 26, 2025, in Ibiono Ibom Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State.
The event, hosted by the Joint National Association of People with Disabilities (JONAPWD), Ibiono Ibom Chapter, in collaboration with the Unique Persons with Disability Multi-Purpose Co-Operative Society, marked the association’s end-of-year celebration. For many participants—who face daily challenges related to mobility, access, and limited resources—the occasion was both uplifting and affirming, leaving them with essential supplies and a deep sense of dignity and inclusion.
Items distributed included bags of rice, cartons of Mimee Indomie noodles, gallons of groundnut oil, Maggi seasoning cubes, several crutches, and significant cash donations.
Beyond addressing immediate needs, the gesture symbolised care, recognition, and respect for a community often marginalised.
Speaking at the event, Dr Umoren emphasised that the outreach was driven purely by humanity, in line with the foundation’s guiding principle, “Service to Humanity… Kere Uduot Owo.” He stressed that the initiative was apolitical, noting that giving back to society is a moral obligation rooted in gratitude for God’s blessings. His remarks resonated strongly with attendees.
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The association’s president, Mr Nyikke-Abasi Oku, expressed profound appreciation, describing Dr Umoren’s support as consistent and impactful. Members responded with songs of praise, joyful dances, and heartfelt prayers, creating an emotional atmosphere filled with gratitude and celebration.
The event was attended by the APC Ibiono Ibom Chapter Chairman, Mr Umoh Ekop, alongside other community stakeholders. Mr Ekop commended the gesture as being in alignment with Governor Umo Eno’s ARISE Agenda and encouraged Dr Umoren to continue his service to God and humanity.
Honour, Prayers, and Enduring Partnership
A major highlight of the event was the presentation of an award of honour to Dr Umoren by the association’s leadership, followed by a prayer session led by Reverend Aniefiok Udofia for divine protection and continued grace. The moment reflected the mutual respect and shared values between the foundation and the disability community.
The Relationship Continued Into The New Year
On January 12, 2026, during JONAPWD’s inaugural meeting and Thanksgiving service, Dr Umoren received symbolic gifts and reaffirmed the Hightower Humanity Foundation’s commitment to a sustained partnership with the association. Leaders, including Vice Chairman Elder Offiong Solomon Udom, Women Leader Madam Akon Effiong Akpan, and President Nyikke-Abasi Oku, reiterated their appreciation, while Reverend Nkereuwem Nnana Udo offered prayers for the association and the foundation.
A Record of Service
Dr Umoren’s humanitarian efforts reflect a consistent record of community impact. In 2023, the Hightower Humanity Foundation donated a fully furnished ward office—complete with a desktop computer and internet access—to APC Ward 9, sponsored a football tournament across Ibiono Ibom wards with prizes running into millions of naira, and supported over 120 widows with food items valued at millions during the Christmas season.
Through these sustained acts of kindness, Dr Marshall Umoren continues to demonstrate that true leadership is defined by service to humanity, compassion for the vulnerable, and a commitment to uplifting communities.
