At long last, we have received the confirmation we were waiting for before releasing the final program for the 2001 Convention in Detroit, Michigan. It was worth the wait. For the first time, the spiritual and political leadership of Urhoboland will attend and participate in the annual convention of Urhobo descendants in North America.

The President-General, Dr. Ona Pela, has received official confirmation to this effect. A delegation of 12 people will join Urhobo sons and daughters in celebrating Urhobo heritage from August 31 to September 3 (U. S. A. Labor Day Weekend) at the Southfield Hilton, Detroit Metro.

The delegation will be led by Chief Benjamin O. Okumagba (JP), President-General of UPU, our mother-organization and the spirit of Urhobo nationalism. Other members of the delegation include: Mrs. Margaret E. Okumagba, Chief Matthew O. Origbo, Chief Patrick O. Bolokor (JP), Chief Gabriel Ofotokun (JP), Deacon John O. Onojakpor, Chief Frank Eghene (JP), Chief T. A. Atuma (JP), Mrs. Vera Atuma and Mr. Peter Asagba.

With the representation from Urhoboland settled, we will be issuing final information relating to the Program, Accommodation and Travel, and Awards within the next week.

We appeal to, and encourage all descendants and friends of Urhobo to make an effort to attend the convention and to help make Urhobo leadership proud.

Issued by:

The Directorate of Publicity
Urhobo Progress Union, North America
P. O. Box  431663
Pontiac, MI 48343, USA
Phone: 248-332-4184; Fax: 248-332-3329;
E-mail:okugbe@aol.com.
August  8, 2001.