Philanthropist High Chief Johnson Atshelghe Bags Double Excellence Awards, Urges Rich Nigerians to Invest at Home
Philanthropist High Chief Johnson Atshelghe Bags Double Excellence Awards, Urges Rich Nigerians to Invest at Home
Habiba Sam
The dual honours were conferred on him by the Federated Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ, Edo State Council, and The Crusaders Voice News at a ceremony held inside Ologbo Hospital Limited, the newly established private medical facility founded by the honouree in Ologbo, Ikpoba-Okha Local Government Area.
The well-attended ceremony drew journalists, community leaders, associates and well-wishers who came to celebrate the philanthropist’s contributions to humanity and grassroots development.
Speaking shortly after receiving the awards, High Chief Atshelghe used the opportunity to challenge wealthy Nigerians to redirect their investments to their home communities instead of concentrating their wealth abroad.
According to him, many rural and semi-urban communities across the country still lack basic social amenities such as hospitals, good roads, electricity and schools, and deliberate investments by affluent citizens could help bridge the gap.
“You are just wasting your time taking all your money abroad to invest because one day your children may not be able to access those investments. Why not invest in your community?” he queried.
He stressed that government alone cannot meet all the infrastructural needs of citizens, adding that private individuals with means must complement government efforts by funding people-oriented projects that directly impact lives.
The philanthropist disclosed that his decision to build Ologbo Hospital Limited was born out of a personal tragedy the loss of his younger sister during childbirth.
He recounted that his sister had to be taken from Ologbo to Sapele for medical attention due to the absence of a functional hospital in the kingdom, but she died before reaching the hospital.
“That was when I said I must build a hospital in this kingdom. I saved towards it, and the project started last year. It was officially opened last month,” he revealed.
He explained that the hospital was established to provide quality, affordable healthcare for residents of Ologbo and neighbouring communities, especially the vulnerable who often struggle to access medical care.
“My heart belongs to the people and the vulnerable. I use the blessings of God in my life to bless my people,” he added.
Atshelghe noted that beyond healthcare, he has also invested in community roads, rural electrification and other development projects aimed at transforming Ologbo. He revealed that his businesses currently provide jobs for over 1,200 workers, with a monthly wage bill of about N138 million, stressing that his philanthropy cuts across youth empowerment, support for women and care for the elderly.
Presenting the Federated Chapel’s Award of Excellence, a leader of the Chapel, Comrade Edosa Okunbor, described Atshelghe as a humble and humane personality whose interventions have brought visible progress to Ologbo Kingdom.
Okunbor said his personal encounters with the businessman revealed a different person from the sometimes negative perception held by some quarters, urging him to remain steadfast in his good works.
He noted that history will remember Atshelghe for the lives he has touched and the projects he has executed for the common good.
He further praised him for promoting peace and development, noting that peace remains the bedrock for sustainable investment.
Representing the Chairman of NUJ Edo State Council, Dr. Festus Alenkhe, the State Secretary, Comrade Andy Egbon, also lauded the philanthropist for his exemplary leadership, community service and promotion of peaceful coexistence.
“If there is no peace, it will be difficult to attract investment,” Egbon said, while conveying the Chairman’s apology for his absence.
He added that Atshelghe has shown sincere commitment to uplifting his people through practical interventions within and outside Ologbo, describing his gesture as worthy of emulation.
Similarly, The Crusaders Voice News presented its own Award of Excellence to the business mogul in recognition of his philanthropic activities, consistent support for media professionals, and dedication to the welfare of Ologbo indigenes and the vulnerable.
The medium said the award was to encourage him to do more for humanity.
Ambassador Prince Johnson Atshelghe, JP, the Iyatsere of Warri Kingdom, was born on March 20, 1957, into the Atshelghe family of Idogbo community, Ologbo, Ikpoba-Okha Local Government Area of Edo State.
He attended Ozaniche Primary School and Azanichi Secondary School in Orhionmwon, before proceeding to the College of Education, Warri, where he obtained the Nigeria Certificate in Education, NCE.
He worked with several drilling companies, rising to managerial levels before resigning to establish his own businesses and build a career as a security consultant.
His business interests include Jhobason Nigeria Limited, ASOPAC Oil and Gas Services Limited, ASO Virgin Nigeria Limited and Ologbo Hospital Limited. He is also active in various social and community-based organizations and serves as patron to several groups.
Married with children and grandchildren, Atshelghe is widely regarded as a philanthropist and grassroots leader dedicated to improving the lives of his people.
The high point of the event was the formal presentation of the awards, which drew applause from guests, including community leaders such as Chief Oghnedo and Chief Omiri, who witnessed the colourful ceremony.
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