SAMUEL AMOBI ‘MOBI’
In the spirit of Christmas and its message of love, redemption, and renewal, Prof. Obiora Okonkwo, OFR, Chairman of United Nigeria Airlines and founder of Pro-Value Humanity, alongside his daughter, Ms. Noni Obiora-Okonkwo, joined His Grace, Most Rev. Valerian Maduka Okeke, the Metropolitan Archbishop of Onitsha, for a special Christmas Day thanksgiving celebration with inmates at the Onitsha Correctional Centre.
The thanksgiving, which started with a Holy Mass led by Archbishop Okeke, centered on the themes of redemption and God’s unconditional love. In his homily, the Archbishop emphasized that Christmas signifies God’s immense love for humanity, as demonstrated by sending His only begotten Son to redeem the world from sin. He also made a heartfelt appeal for prayers and support to aid the inmates’ reintegration into society.
Joining the Archbishop and Prof. Okonkwo in the celebration was the former Governor of Anambra State, Mr. Peter Obi, alongside clergy and other dignitaries. Together, they brought Christmas cheer to the inmates through prayers, songs, and words of encouragement, reminding them of the hope for a better future.
Prof. Okonkwo commended Archbishop Okeke for his steadfast dedication to humanitarian outreach and support for vulnerable populations. He further underscored the importance of kindness and solidarity, especially during the Christmas season, as a way of uplifting those in challenging circumstances.
The hallmark of the Thanksgiving celebration was the donation of Christmas gifts, food items, and other essentials to the Onitsha Correctional Centre, personally facilitated by Prof. Obiora Okonkwo, OFR.
This act of generosity and compassion exemplified the true spirit of Christmas, bringing smiles and hope to the inmates while reaffirming the transformative power of love.