A non-partisan socio-cultural association of Tiv elites and professionals, Club De Pals, has honoured some of its members with outstanding qualities in community service.

The group says it is committed to the socio-economic development of Tiv nation and Benue State in general, an obligation it has faithfully discharged in over 25 years of its existence.

Speaking at the event, a former governorship aspirant on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Benue State in 2023, Godwin Ityoachimin, underscored the importance of unity among the various ethnic nationalities in the country.

Ityoachimin, who hopes to actualise his governorship ambition in 2027, appreciated the group for finding him worthy of the award, saying the gesture would spur others to also emulate the good works of those who were identified for the honour.

“I am not given to receiving awards like that, but when I was convinced about the integrity of the club and what they stand for, I had no option but to accept the honour from the organisers, and so, I do not take it for granted at all,” he said.

He also contributed a token to the unveiling of the proposed clubhouse building design, with a promise to support more when the foundation is laid and the development of the building commences.

President of the group, Pal Richard Nduul, said the award is part of the association’s contributions to nation-building by recognising those who have made outstanding contributions to the development of the nation, Benue State, and Tiv land in particular through their careers in the public and professional services and other areas of endeavour.

In Ityoachimin’s particular case, the selection committee found him worthy for the exemplary manner in which he has contributed to the development of his community in various ways over the years.

The award was presented to him and others in different categories at the Club’s annual reunion and awards ceremony in Abuja on Saturday.