 |
|
|
A landmark achievement was recorded on July 8, 2008 when Action Health Incorporated (AHI) commissioned The AHI Residence, an ultra-modern, affordable and secure guest facility providing comfortable accommodation and personalized service.
 |
|
In her key note address, the Special Guest of Honour stated that the development of the facility was a victory for Nigeria and a demonstration of good leadership. She said it was a role model achievement worthy of emulation. She therefore charged AHI to continue to focus on Adolescent Sexual and Reproductive Health programming while mentioning public-private partnership as a way forward in SRH programming.
Dr. Kole Shettima of The MacArthur Foundation commended AHI for their work in empowering young Nigerians to safeguard their sexual and reproductive health.
In his remark, Dr. Babatunde Ahonsi of The Ford Foundation said that with the completion of the project, AHI had demonstrated once again that it can be self sustaining by broadening its resource base. He challenged AHI to increase long term sustainability, to pay the price of success and to create as many AHIs as possible.
In her address, The Executive Director, AHI, Mrs. Nike Esiet, traced the history of AHI to its beginning in 1989. She said the organization was founded to address the challenges faced by young people with regards to their Sexual and Reproductive Health. She further stated that AHI in 2002 acquired landed property adjacent to its current office complex and it was initially acquired as an outdoor activity centre for youth; however, the plan was catalyzed in 2004 when government’s approval for the development of the property was secured to provide a safe and affordable 18-room residential training facilities for youth development. With funds from a Special Award Grant received from The John D. and Catheirne T. MacArthur Foundation in 2007 and income from AHI’s investments in the stock market, the physical brick and mortar construction of the five-storey building was completed while The Ford Foundation contributed toward the activation and enhancement of the facility. She appreciated the Lagos State Government for their enabling environment and support in AHI’s work.
The Award of Excellence was presented during the ceremony to The MacArthur Foundation and The Ford Foundation for their outstanding commitment and support for youth Sexual Health and Rights in Nigeria by Rev. (Dr.) Chris Omeben, a member of the Board of Trustees, Action Health Incorporated (AHI).
The AHI Residence is an 18-room bed and breakfast facility located in the heart of Lagos Mainland and easily accessible to other parts of the city. The facility compliments the training and meeting rooms at the adjourning Action Health Inc (AHI) office complex. The rooms are equipped with telephones, internet access, LCD flat screen TV with movie/satellite channels, mini-fridges and are fully air-conditioned for comfort. Other amenities include complimentary guest tea and coffee tray, full buffet-style breakfast inclusive in room rate, fax and copy facilities. The facilities are ideal for use by corporate organizations, civil society organizations, international development partners and academia for training workshops, seminars and business meetings.
The AHI Residence was built from AHI’s institutional income and support of her key partners: The John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation’s Special Award Grant 2007; The Ford Foundation, and; The David and Lucile Packard Foundation. Visit "The AHI Residence" at http://www.ahiresidence.com
