The immediate past vice chairman of Association of Nigerian Authors, ANA, Abuja chapter, John Freeman Ondoma has urged youths in the country not to see various life challenges they are passing through as excuse to venture into anti-social activities and crime.
Ondoma spoke on Tuesday in Abuja shortly after the launching and public presentation of his two books, The Twelve Hints of Success & Greatness and What is Life.
He said the inspiration behind writing of the two books came from his difficult and challenging experiences, adding that despite several reasons to give up, he persevered.
“Beyond sharing my experience in these books, I also want to pass a message across the global space, that as humans, we should use our lives and talent for the betterment of mankind.
“Facing difficult situations is not an excuse to let things slip our fingers. In our challenges, there abound opportunities one can leverage on.
“I am also encouraging the youths not to see crime as an option. That there are difficulties or they come from a less privileged background is not enough reason.
“I was born and brought up in a seemingly rough environment and likes, yet I did not at any point allow myself to be involved in crime because I want my life to be of positive impact to anyone I come across,” he said.
Chairman of the occasion and the Chief Consulting Solicitor, Esquire’s Legal, Austin J. Otah applauded the author for surmounting series of challenges to come up with the two books.
He emphasised that despite challenges arising from work, family, and other fundamental obstacles, the author documented his experience for present and future generations to benefit from.
Chief host of the event and chairman of Association of Nigerian Authors, ANA Abuja chapter, Halima Usman applauded Ondoma who was formerly her vice during her first tenure in office for always volunteering to support other people’s courses.
She described as seamless the cordial working relationship that existed between herself and Ondoma which she said helped the chapter in achieving great successes.
“Since he left office as the vice-chairman, he has maintained his total support towards the Association despite his very busy schedule. He is one of the people we are very proud of in ANA Abuja,” she added.
Om’oba Jerry Adesewo, the immediate past secretary of ANA Abuja described the works as masterpieces in dealing with the pains, challenges and struggles of human existence.
