The Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Ebonyi State, Bishop Dr. Scam Nwokolo, marked his birthday with a notable act of charity, donating a fully furnished three-bedroom bungalow to a widow, Mrs Pauline Nwankwo in Abakaliki.
The official handover of the house, built through Bishop Nwokolo’s non-governmental organization, the Universal Outreach for Women Empowerment Initiative (UNOWEMI), was conducted on Sunday, June 8, 2025, at Ndiebor Nkaliki in the Ebonyi State capital.
The project, which began six years ago, was completed and presented to the widow as part of the clergyman’s commitment to supporting vulnerable groups.
Speaking at the ceremony, Bishop Nwokolo described the plight of widows as a growing concern and urged individuals and organizations to offer assistance where possible.
He explained that the late Mr. Stephen Nwankwo, husband of the beneficiary, passed away in 2004, leaving her with eight children and no stable housing. He said the house project was a promise made to provide security and comfort to the family.
“Pauline was one of our earliest converts and remained steadfast in her service to God. When her husband died, I vowed before God to support her and her children with a decent home,” Nwokolo said. “I started this project personally, but eventually involved our NGO to help realize the vision. Today, we are grateful it has been completed.”
The Chief of Staff to the Ebonyi State Government, Prof. Emmanuel Echiegu, represented by his deputy, Mr. Uchenna Donatus, commended the gesture, describing it as in line with Governor Francis Nwifuru’s “People’s Charter of Needs” agenda. He expressed the government’s readiness to support civil society organizations contributing to social welfare.
Other dignitaries at the event included the Vice Chairman of Ebonyi CAN, Rev. Joseph Nwibo; former CAN Chairman, Rev. Dr. Emmanuel Nshii; Bishop Anayo Ilo; and Hon. Victor Nwoke, member representing Abakaliki North in the State House of Assembly. They all praised Bishop Nwokolo for his commitment to charity and inclusive leadership.
Mrs. Pauline Nwankwo, overwhelmed with emotion, expressed gratitude to Bishop Nwokolo and his organization, stating that the church had been her main source of support since her husband’s death.
In a separate remark, Mrs. Abigail Eze-Iheukwumere, CEO of UNOWEMI, reiterated the organization’s commitment to empowering women and youth through vocational training, education support, and humanitarian outreach.
The birthday celebration, held on Saturday, June 14, 2025, drew religious leaders, political figures, and community members who praised Bishop Nwokolo’s contributions to faith and society. The celebrant, in a message of appreciation, thanked all attendees for their support and prayers.
“I am deeply grateful for your presence and kind wishes. Your love and support made my birthday truly memorable,” Nwokolo said.
