By News Critic Reporters
There was an outpouring of joy at Echendu Memorial Hall, Umuda Okpuala, on Monday as the Nneoma Victoria Okwulehie Foundation held its annual empowerment programme, bringing hope and relief to indigent, vulnerable and elderly residents of Ohuhu.
The event, marked by songs of thanksgiving and heartfelt prayers, was organised in memory of Mrs. Echendu Ibe (née Okwulehie), who tragically lost her life in the ill-fated Dana Air crash of 2012 alongside her daughter and other family members.
Speaking at the ceremony, the founder, Mrs. Nneoma Victoria Okwulehie, described the outreach as the second edition of the empowerment initiative, established to preserve the humanitarian legacy of her late daughter, Echendu.
“This is in her remembrance because this was her life. This is what she loved doing while she was alive,” she said emotionally. “Though she is no longer here with us, she lives on through this foundation and the lives we continue to touch.”
Mrs. Okwulehie explained that beneficiaries were carefully selected through prayerful consideration to ensure that assistance reaches those truly in need. While a standing committee oversees the foundation’s activities, she said the final responsibility rests with her to guarantee that the funds are judiciously utilised.
In a major highlight of the event, the foundation donated a specialised Uri bed for prostate patients valued at over N2.5 million to Okpu Isingwu Health Centre, Amafor Ihungwu. The centre also received N100,000 to help restore electricity supply.
Several individuals totaling 13 in number received cash grants ranging from N100,000 to N300,000 to support small businesses and personal welfare. Among the beneficiaries were Elder Thomas Ufomadu, Mrs. Ngozi Maduagwu, Mrs. Okwuchi Emekobum, Mrs. Yagazie Ihejirika, Mr. Chimezie Nwakanma, Anagharaku Maduagwu, Ugochukwu Ndubueze, Chief Uwaoma Emekobum, Chimezie Nwakanma among others.
Chairman of the foundation’s committee, Chief Jones Nwabueze, affirmed that the initiative “has come to stay” and will continue to put smiles on the faces of the needy across Ohuhu and beyond. He urged beneficiaries to make prudent use of the funds to improve their living conditions.
Traditional leaders also lent their voices in appreciation. The Traditional Prime Minister of Okpu Isingwu, Chief Moses Nwakanma, commended Mrs. Okwulehie for her unwavering commitment to community upliftment and prayed for divine strength and blessings upon her family.
On behalf of the beneficiaries, Chief Uwaoma Emekobum and Mrs. Ohaeri Mercy expressed gratitude to the Okwulehie family, pledging to use the support responsibly.
Dignitaries at the event included His Royal Majesty, Eze Kingsley Alozie Emekobum, and other community leaders.
For many in attendance, the programme was more than an act of charity—it was a powerful reminder that even in the face of devastating loss, compassion can rise, endure, and transform lives.
