Book Launch Of “Kasie” And Natasha Ilo Foundation Event On 23/02/201

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BRIEF REMARKS BY HIS EXCELLENCY, PROF. YEMI OSINBAJO, SAN, GCON, VICE PRESIDENT OF THE FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF NIGERIA AT THE BOOK LAUNCH OF “KASIE” AND NATASHA ILO FOUNDATION EVENT ON THE 23^RD OF FEBRUARY, 2021

PROTOCOLS

Thank you for the invitation to join you this evening and the opportunity to say a few words.

I recall having to speak to Jude after the tragic loss of Natasha, of course, I was at a loss for words. I just couldn’t’ imagine how he or even for that matter, Nkem could cope. But five years later, they both have done the truly remarkable, they have converted terrible grief to a civic gift.

By establishing this foundation, they have said that adversity must not be drowned in self-pity and sorrow, it can become a channel to bless the living, to make life easier for some others, especially children living in the most challenging circumstances.

Jude gives even more, more of himself by writing KASIE, a book of poems in which he gives expression to the pain and anguish of deep loss,  to memorialize Natasha, but also in the hope that others going through the deep pain of loss may find some comfort, solace, hope or even inspiration, or even just to be reassured as Chika, the reviewer said, that it is ok to grieve even for a man to cry.

I am immensely proud of my friend and brother Jude, a man who has devoted most of his adult life so far to seeking creative and sustainable ideas to resolving the physical and subliminal development challenges facing our country and continent.

Also, Nkem has devoted her enormous talents to improving public service delivery in Nigeria through her work in public procurement reforms.

I pray that the Lord will strengthen you both and the entire family continually and may the Natasha Ilo foundation and Kasie, the book of poems, and Natasha’s memory be a blessing for generations.

Thank you.