Citizens of the Atta community of Imo State living in North America and Canada have concluded plans to host a major convention and fundraising gala aimed at improving healthcare delivery in their hometown in Ikeduru Local Government Area.

The three-day event, organised by the Atta People’s Assembly of North America and Canada, is scheduled to be held from May 22 to 24, 2026, in Irvington.

Public Relations Officer of the association, Evelyn Childs, said the convention—tagged “Improving Healthcare in Atta”—will feature a fundraising gala as well as elections into key executive positions.

She explained that proceeds from the fundraiser would be used to upgrade existing health centres in Atta and to construct befitting residential quarters for nurses and matrons to improve service delivery and staff welfare.

President of the association, Godwin Ehirim, has called on Atta indigenes in the diaspora and their friends to support the initiative, describing it as critical to the community’s development.

“We are appealing to Atta citizens in North America and their friends to rally round the association to help uplift the town,” he said, urging unity among community stakeholders both at home and abroad.

Ehirim also raised concerns over insecurity in the area, noting that it continues to hinder development in Imo State. He appealed to federal, state and local authorities to intervene in key areas including security, road infrastructure, social programmes and youth employment.

The association acknowledged challenges such as recruiting members and securing sustained financial commitment, but expressed optimism that collective effort would drive meaningful progress.

This year’s convention will be hosted by the New Jersey branch of the organisation under the leadership of Sir Oliver Egenti, Mrs Chika Iwuanyanwu, Sir Justin Okafor, Engr. Barnabas Lewis and Lolo Stella Ezeilo.

Organisers say the gathering will not only raise funds but also strengthen bonds within the Atta diaspora community while charting a unified path for development back home.

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Morocco’s King Mohammed VI on Friday called on members of Morocco’s Parliament to prioritize social equity, local development, and national unity as the country enters the final legislative year of the current term.

The King, accompanied by Crown Prince Moulay El Hassan and Prince Moulay Rachid, delivered his address during the opening of the first session of the fifth legislative year of the 11th Legislature in Rabat.

King Mohammed VI flanked by Crown Prince Moulay El Hassan (left)  and Prince Moulay Rachid

In his speech, the Monarch commended Parliament’s work in legislation, government oversight, and public policy evaluation, while urging lawmakers to complete pending legislative plans and projects with renewed diligence and responsibility.

“This is an opportunity for me to express my appreciation for the work you do,” King Mohammed VI said. “I invite you to devote this final year to serious, responsible work to complete legislative plans, implement ongoing programs, and address citizens’ pressing needs.”

The King stressed the need for harmony between major national projects and social programs, emphasizing that both serve the goal of advancing Morocco’s development and improving citizens’ living standards.

He urged parliamentarians, political parties, elected officials, the media, and civil society to play an active role in communicating policies that affect citizens’ rights and freedoms. “It is, first and foremost, your duty as parliamentarians, given that you represent the citizens,” he said.

Reflecting on his earlier Throne Day Address, King Mohammed VI reiterated his call for a new generation of local development programs based on social justice, territorial balance, and equal opportunity. He said achieving these goals would require collective mobilization, a shift in mentality, and a stronger results-oriented culture supported by digital tools and accurate field data.

“I seek to ensure everyone benefits from the fruits of growth and from equal opportunities among the citizens of our unified country,” the King said, describing local development as “the mirror that truly reflects the progress of the emerging, united Morocco.”

The Monarch outlined three key priorities for the coming year:

1. Empowering Fragile Areas: A new policy for mountainous regions and oases, which cover 30% of Morocco’s territory, to promote solidarity and regional integration.
2. Sustainable Coastal Development: Better use of coastal laws and national plans to balance rapid development with environmental protection and build a strong maritime economy.
3. Strengthening Rural Centers: Expansion of rural development programs to manage urban growth and improve access to services in remote areas.

King Mohammed VI urged both government and Parliament—across majority and opposition—to act in the nation’s best interest and uphold integrity, commitment, and selflessness in public service.

“The coming year will be replete with projects as well as challenges,” he said. “Live up to the trust placed in you; be worthy of the responsibility falling upon you, and of the integrity and commitment required by the mission of serving the nation.”

He concluded with a verse from the Holy Qur’an underscoring accountability: “Then shall anyone who has done an atom’s weight of good see it; and anyone who has done an atom’s weight of evil shall see it.”

The royal speech sets the tone for a decisive year aimed at consolidating Morocco’s path toward inclusive development, transparency, and social justice.

BY KUNLE SOLAJA

The Moroccan National Tourist Office (MNTO), in collaboration with the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF), will be actively participating in the upcoming African Football Exhibition, scheduled to take place in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, on June 28 and 29, 2025.

The joint participation underscores Morocco’s commitment to leveraging its rich football heritage and dynamic tourism industry to foster cultural diplomacy and pan-African collaboration. The two-day event, expected to attract thousands of visitors, including football legends, officials, fans, and media professionals from across the continent, is being billed as a unique convergence of sport, culture, and tourism.

The MNTO will be showcasing Morocco’s diverse tourist offerings—from its vibrant imperial cities like Marrakesh and Fez, to its scenic coastlines, desert adventures, and cultural festivals—while highlighting the kingdom’s growing reputation as a global hub for sports tourism.

Visitors to the Moroccan stand will experience immersive presentations, destination marketing materials, and interactive sessions designed to promote travel to Morocco, especially ahead of upcoming global football events.

Meanwhile, the FRMF will spotlight Morocco’s footballing milestones, including the historic semi-final run by the Atlas Lions at the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022, and the country’s increasing influence in continental football development.

The exhibition comes at a time when Morocco is gaining prominence on the international sporting stage, especially in light of its successful bid to co-host the 2030 FIFA World Cup alongside Spain and Portugal.

According to organizers, the African Football Exhibition aims to celebrate Africa’s rich football heritage while serving as a platform for strategic networking among federations, tourism boards, sports ministries, and private sector stakeholders.

Morocco’s participation reflects its broader vision of using sports, particularly football, as a soft-power tool to deepen ties across Africa and position the kingdom as a leading destination for major events and experiential tourism.

Further announcements regarding Morocco’s exhibition activities, special guests, and cultural showcases are expected in the coming days.

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