Emotional Moment As Visually Impaired Daughters Of Obiora Okonkwo Thank Him For Support
ULOKA CHIBUIKE
It was a moment filled with emotions and goosebumps as visually impaired students, under the full scholarship scheme of Professor Obiora Okonkwo, OFR (Dikeora), whom he prefers to call his daughters, came to say “Thank You and Merry Christmas” to their benefactor.
Professor Okonkwo, the Chairman of United Nigeria Airlines and founder of Pro-value Humanity, a silent philanthropist and humanitarian, had adopted these daughters and enrolled them in various schools on full scholarships to enable them to receive advanced education.
This is part of his humanitarian work, aimed at building young people for future generations. These four students have already graduated, with some already employed, while a few others are awaiting their compulsory National Youth Service Corps postings. They could not contain their excitement over the benevolence, assistance, and love of their benefactor who, according to them, gave them a reason to remain hopeful and positive regardless of their condition.
Amongst them is Ozoude Chinelo from Enugu State, who has completed both her LLB and Law School programs and a full staff member of United Nigeria Airlines Enugu Station. Chude Somadina majored in Guidance and Counseling from Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka; She is also from Enugu State. Egbuonu Chidimma and Chukwu Miracle Adaeze, both graduates of Education Management and Policy from Nnamdi Azikiwe University, are awaiting their NYSC postings. Egbuonu Chidimma hails from Nkpor in Idemmili North area of Anambra State, while Miracle Adaeze is from Ebonyi State.
Professor Okonkwo did not allow their visual impairment to limit them, but instead gave them hope through education, mentorship, motivation, and employment to ensure they achieve their full potentials. Despite their different backgrounds and origins, Professor Okonkwo has united them as sisters and relatives who now care for and look out for each other.
From Ozoude Chinelo to the last of them, they are not just educated, but also skilled, equal to every other human in society, and contributing their share to humanity. With Chinelo waiting to be called to the Bar as a solicitor of the Supreme Court of the Federal Republic, and others excelling in their various professions, they serve as a motivation to others, proving that there is no limit to what one can achieve regardless of their circumstances or situation.
Yesterday, at the Palace of Igwe Ezechuamagha in Ogidi Kingdom, they had the privilege of meeting with the traditional ruler, Igwe Pharm. Alex Onyido; Chief Sam Mendu (Ọnwa Ogidi); Senator Victor Umeh; and Hon. Dr. Ifeanyichukwu Ibezi. All of them expressed their support and encouragement, thanking Professor Obiora Okonkwo for his soul-lifting humanitarian work, which has given them goosebumps and also implored others to look out for people with special needs in society.
The climax of the day was the presentation of a portrait to convey their gratitude to their benefactor, Professor Obiora Okonkwo, OFR (Dikeora). He has not only shown them the love of a father, but has also weathered the storms of life for them, helping them realize their dreams regardless of their status or origin.
When Professor Obiora Okonkwo launched his charity foundation, Pro-value Humanity (a non-governmental and non-profit organization), it was for him an avenue to touch lives, give back to society, and ensure that no one, regardless of their rank or challenges, would be left behind.
THE MESSAGE ON THE PORTRAIT READS:
Dear Sweet Dad.
Prof. Obiora Okonkwo
As we reflect on our educational journey and the countless Blessings we have received, we can not express enough gratitude For your
Unwavering sponsorship and support, your Dedication and believe in our potential have
Brightened our path, granting us the opportunity To thrive academically and realize our dreams.
As the holiday season unfolds, we wanted to Take a moment to let you know just how much Your sponsorship means to us. Your kindness And generosity have not only paved the way for Our education but have also filled our hearts With hope and gratitude.
Your love and care have been a guiding light throughout our journey, reminding us that we Are capable of Achieving greatness.
This christmas, we wish you joy, peace, and Happiness in abundance. may the spirit of the Holiday season fill your heart with warmth, and May You be surrounded by the love of family and Friends.
Thank you for being an incredible source of inspiration and support in our lives.
With Sincerest Gratitude from The Beneficiaries of your
BENEVOLENCE.
Your Daughters
*****