The official handover ceremony of the building took place on Sunday at the late husband’s compound of the beneficiary. The event was graced by religious, political, and community leaders who lauded the initiative as a significant stride toward humanitarian development.
Chairman of UNOWEMI and the Ebonyi State Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Rev. Dr. Samb Chinedum Nwokolo, said the project was driven by the pain and hardship widows often face, particularly in the current socio-economic climate.
“As a servant of God, I have witnessed many widows living in abject poverty. It has always been my desire to support them, although financial limitations often held me back,” he said.
Nwokolo narrated that the building project began six years ago as a personal commitment and was later adopted by the NGO to ensure its completion. He described Mrs. Nwankwo as one of the earliest converts in their church, who has remained dedicated despite her hardships.
“I made a promise before God to provide her and her children a secure home after her husband’s death. Today, by God’s grace and through UNOWEMI’s support, that promise has been fulfilled,” he said.
He cited Biblical scriptures, including James 1:27 and 1 Timothy 5:3, as the inspiration for supporting widows and the vulnerable, adding that UNOWEMI continues to carry out various empowerment projects across Ebonyi State.
He recalled: "Since its inception in 2019, the organization has trained over 1,000 youths and indigents in vocational skills including soap making, bread baking, and agro-processing. Additionally, it has provided financial aid and startup capital to over 200 widows, improved female school enrollment through adult education classes, and collaborated with organizations like FIDA and the Centre for Women Studies and Intervention (CWSI) to raise awareness on gender-based violence.
"UNOWEMI’s Chief Executive Officer, Evangelist Mrs. Abigail Eze-Iheukwumere, has represented the organization at international platforms, including the UN Commission on the Status of Women (CSW) conference in New York."
The Ebonyi State Governor, Chief Francis Nwifuru represented by the Deputy Chief of Staff, Engr. Uche Donatus, commended the NGO’s efforts, aligning the initiative with his People’s Charter of Needs mantra and the Better Health for Rural Women and Children, BERWO Foundation.
“This project is not just about providing a shelter. It is a testament to genuine charity and love for humanity. The state is proud of this achievement and we're open to partnerships with honest NGOs like UNOWEMI,” he said.
Also speaking, Hon. Victor Nwoke, member representing Abakaliki North in the State House of Assembly, praised the organization’s commitment and encouraged the public to emulate the spirit of charity and humility.
Religious leaders, including State CAN Vice Chairman - Rev. Dr. Joseph Nwibo, Archbishop Emmanuel Nshi, and Archbishop Anayo Iro, described the gesture as a milestone in faith-based humanitarian service and urged continued support for similar initiatives.
In her response, the beneficiary, Mrs. Pauline Nwankwo, expressed deep gratitude to Rev. Nwokolo and UNOWEMI for their generosity, praying for divine blessings upon them.
The event featured prayers, presentation of keys to the new house, and donations of cash and household items to the widow and the NGO.
