A quarter of a century ago, a small group of Lagos indigenes in the diaspora came together with a vision: to create a global platform that would preserve their heritage while making a difference back home.
That vision has today blossomed into Eko Club International (ECI), a worldwide network of 25 chapters that now stands as one of the most enduring Lagos diaspora organisations. Incidentally, the group is now celebrating 25 years of “service and unity” according to a statement signed by its Public Relations Officer, Hon. Saheed AbdulLateef.
EDITOR’S PICKS
Next month, ECI members from across the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, and Europe are converging on Newark, New Jersey, for a four-day convention (September 18–21) to celebrate the club’s silver jubilee milestone.
The celebration will honour the association’s journey since its founding in 2000, recognise distinguished members and supporters, and unveil new initiatives focused on education, healthcare, empowerment, and cultural preservation.
A Vision Rooted in Exile
ECI’s story is inseparable from Lagos’ own history. The association was founded at the urging of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, then in political exile, who encouraged Lagosians abroad to unite under one umbrella.
What started as a modest gathering has since grown into a global force, thanks to steady leadership and the contributions of pioneers such as the late Alhaji Olusesi Dawodu, Attorney O.J. Lawal, Otunba T.J. Abass, and distinguished members including Dr. Nurudeen Olowopopo (late), Dr. Shaffdeen Amuwo, Dr. Moruf Alausa, and Dr. Kayode Opeifa.
Today, under the stewardship of its President, Chief Saheed Olushi, the organisation has firmly established itself as a non-profit, non-political, and non-religious body with an international footprint.
Measurable Impact at Home and Abroad
Beyond its cultural and social gatherings, ECI has earned recognition for its impact-driven programs in Lagos State. Over the last 25 years, the association has:
- Conducted biennial medical missions delivering free healthcare to underserved communities.
- Donated hospital equipment and facilities to improve public health infrastructure.
- Organised quarterly health outreaches across Lagos neighborhoods.
- Supported entrepreneurs and artisans through financial empowerment schemes.
- Provided food palliatives for vulnerable households.
- Awarded scholarships and educational aid to Lagos youth.
- Mentored the next generation through cultural and civic engagement initiatives.
- Partnered with Lagos State leadership to promote sustainable development.
More recently, in November 2024, ECI held a medical outreach that offered free medical care to over 500 lagosians in Lagos. This outreach featured health education, diabetes screening and intervention, vision screening with free frames, cancer screenings, dental checks, free medications, procedures/surgeries, and general health screenings.
Mini palliative backpacks containing rice, garri, and seasonings were also distributed to widows at the same outreach.
“Our 25th anniversary is more than a celebration – it is a testament to the power of unity and shared purpose,” Chief Olushi, the ECI president, said ahead of the convention. “We have grown from a vision shared by a few passionate Lagosians into an international network making real, measurable impact at home and abroad.”
Looking Ahead
As the club reflects on its achievements, its leadership is also charting a course for the future. Plans are underway to expand scholarships, strengthen medical missions, and broaden cultural initiatives that connect younger generations of Lagosians in the diaspora to their roots.
FURTHER READING
The Newark convention, organisers say, will serve not only as a reunion of members worldwide but also as a launchpad for new projects. For ECI, the silver jubilee is not just about looking back, it is about building forward.
Click here to watch the video of the week below:
