Billionaire businessman and Group Managing Director of UTM Group, Julius Rone, has donated the sum of N20 million to the Delta State Government to fight the coronavirus pandemic.
Impressed by the dedication of medical personnel in the state and the “Exemplary leadership” shown by the state governor, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa.
Rone made the princely donation today, Thursday, 16th April, 2020, as his contribution to the efforts of Delta State Government at curbing the spread of the virus.
Praising the visionary leadership of Dr. Okowa, Rone said he was “humbled and incredibly impressed by the quality of medical facility the governor has put in place within a short time to ensure that Delta indigenes remain safe and healthy.”
“I can’t but be moved by the tireless efforts of Governor Okowa and the state healthcare workers who are at the forefront, fighting every minute to keep the people safe and the state functioning in spite of the threat posed by the virus
“As they keep us safe, the least one should do is to help provide as much support to them as one can. At this point, all philanthropic endeavours are good and welcomed. This is why I’m donating the sum of N20 million to the course of the fight against the virus.
“It is my greatest wish and prayer that we win the fight against the virus that presently seems to defy a known cure. Notwithstanding, I firmly believe that the season will be over and we all will emerge stronger and healthier,” Rone stated.
Rone further enjoined all Deltans to continue keeping safe and to adhere to state government’s counsels and eschew violence.
Delta State has four confirmed cases of COVID-19 as at Wednesday when the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control gave the latest updates on the virus.
The state governor has extended the stay-at-home order for another 14 days to mitigate the spread of the virus.
Governor Okowa disclosed this at a news briefing on Tuesday morning at the Government House, Asaba.
He said the extension was necessary to identify, isolate and detect cases.
“It is for the public good and interest in our health. I urge all Deltans to cooperate with us,” he said.
