Seadogs in Southern Ontario mark Christmas, honour fallen heroes

The National Association of Seadogs (NAS), Southern Ontario Branch, Aqua Kanata Deck, rounded off the year with a colourful Family Christmas Party, following a solemn church service held in honour of NAS Remembrance Day, also known as Umalokun Memorial Day.

The memorial service took place at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, Hamilton, Ontario, where members of the association, alongside their families, gathered to reflect on service, sacrifice and the enduring values of humanity.

In his address, the Parish Priest, Reverend Father Tony O’Dell, commended the branch for its consistent humanitarian and community-focused activities. He offered prayers for God’s continued guidance and blessings upon members of the association, while urging them to remain steadfast in promoting justice and compassion.

During his homily, Father O’Dell reflected on the virtues of Christ and the hope of resurrection, and paid glowing tribute to the association for keeping alive the memory of its fallen heroes. He specifically honoured the six Nigerian youths — Kester Aghogho Sobotie, Joseph Uloho, Victor Oyailo, Anthony Teddy Omakor, Bernard Obi and Princely Otegho Otaye — who were tragically killed by men of the Nigeria Police Force in Ughelli, old Bendel State, on December 27, 1983.

Following the church service, members and their families proceeded to Mount Hope Hall, where the Christmas celebration took on a festive atmosphere marked by music, laughter and fellowship. Families exchanged gifts, reinforcing the spirit of unity that defines the association.

The highlight of the celebration was the appearance of Santa Claus, whose lively entrance delighted both children and adults. Santa danced with the families and distributed gifts said to have come all the way from the North Pole, adding colour and excitement to the event.

Speaking at the gathering, the President of the Southern Ontario Chapter, Mr. Ene Edem, applauded the organising committee for successfully hosting both the memorial service and the Christmas celebration. He described the events as a testament to the association’s strong sense of family and shared purpose.

Also speaking, Mrs. Joan Osawe delivered a thoughtful presentation titled “Life of a Pyrates Wife,” in which she encouraged women to actively support their spouses in giving back to society. She urged wives to take part in the charitable and humanitarian activities of the association, describing such involvement as vital to sustaining its ideals.

In his closing remarks, the Coordinator of the Hamilton Sub-Branch, Ogulogu Obaide, Esq., expressed appreciation to the chapter’s leadership and members for their support. He reaffirmed the association’s commitment to community service and assured members that NAS would continue to make a positive impact as it enters the New Year.