31/07/2026
Better Life for Aged Men Foundation Hosts Landmark 'Catch Them Young' Advocacy at Oke-Ovuru Secondary School
UVURU, ABOH MBAISE — The Better Life for Aged Men Foundation (BLAMF), in partnership with Barr. Jude Amanze, has successfully hosted a special edition of its Catch Them Young advocacy programme at Oke-Ovuru Secondary School in Uvuru, Aboh Mbaise. Breaking away from previous formats that focused solely on senior students, this edition brought together senior students, parents, and school teachers under one roof to foster intergenerational understanding and strengthen family bonds.
Opening the lecture series, the first speaker, Ben Mbakwem, delivered a presentation titled "The Debt of Honour: Why a Man’s Success is Incomplete Without His Father’s Smile." Addressing the emotional and communication barriers that often exist between youth and aging parents, Mbakwem declared, "Caring for an aging parent is not a favour or an optional gesture; it is a fundamental debt of honour that every child owes. No matter how high a person rises in life, true success remains incomplete until it reflects in the comfort and joy of the father who sacrificed for that journey." He urged the students to embrace patience and gratitude, reminding them to see their parents beyond their roles as providers and recognize their humanity as they grow older.
Taking the podium as the second speaker, Amb. Jerry Osuji, Executive Director of BLAMF, introduced the concept of the Boomerang Principle in family care. Emphasizing the direct impact of youthful actions on future outcomes, Amb. Osuji stated, "The way you treat your parents today is the exact manual you are writing for how your own children will treat you tomorrow. What you throw out into life is precisely what boomerangs back to you." He challenged the audience to look beyond occasional financial gifts, asserting, "Our elderly fathers and mothers do not just need money; they need our presence, our listening ears, and our deliberate efforts to protect their dignity in their frail years."
A major highlight of the event was an address by Barr. Jude Amanze, who partnered with BLAMF to bring the initiative to his native community. Reflecting on his upbringing, Barr. Amanze shared memories of growing up with an affectionate, close bond to his parents—a relationship of mutual care that sustained them into old age. Reminiscing on his youth, Barr. Amanze remarked, "Growing up, our closeness to our parents was the anchor that guided our steps, and that bond only grew stronger as they aged. Seeing what BLAMF is doing today brings that truth back home, and I commend Amb. Jerry Osuji and his team for this visionary initiative that restores the core values of our families."
The event transitioned into a lively interactive session featuring contributions, questions, and answers from both students and parents. Parents expressed gratitude for an initiative that addresses domestic dynamics, while students pledged to take a more proactive role in supporting their households. The program concluded with renewed commitments from community stakeholders, educators, and students to uphold the principles of parental care, respect, and family solidarity across Aboh Mbaise.
