4th Edition: Eze Okpoko Foundation Gifts Over 200 Widows and Widowers with Food, Cash, Other Items For Christmas
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4th Edition: Eze Okpoko Foundation Gifts Over 200 Widows and Widowers with Food, Cash, Other Items For Christmas
By Naomi Onome
In a heartfelt gathering that felt more like a family reunion than a public event, the Eze Okpoko Foundation, led by Eze Chika Nwokedi, hands out food items in various forms, cash gifts, wristwatches and printed materials (aka Ankara) to over 200 widows and widowers in the 4th edition of the annual “widow-blessing” tradition—a mission which Eze Chika says is driven by a simple, divine mandate to “touch lives”.
The widow-widowers’ event held on Saturday, December 13, 2025, in Ijegun, Lagos, attracted a diverse assembly of attendees, including members and executives of the Igbo Speaking Community and Ohaneze Ndigbo, alongside individuals from various other tribes. This gathering served as a platform for providing goodwill, particularly to widows and widowers who are affiliated with the aforementioned Igbo organisations as well as all registered community members, who were the primary beneficiaries of the event.
The widow and widower event has been conducted continuously since 2022, benefiting over 1,000 individuals. Additionally, the Eze Okpoko Foundation provides support for the less privileged in society, as evidenced by its records, which detail its involvement in paying hospital bills for those in need and aiding various anonymous beneficiaries in multiple ways.
One such notable event is the 4th edition of the 2025 feeding programme specifically aimed at widows and widowers. During this occasion, more than 200 individuals in this demographic received food items as gifts for Christmas. Additionally, cash gifts presented to the beneficiaries ranged from N10,000 to N25,000. Some families benefited from double packages, owing to their membership in the Igbo Speaking Community and Ohaneze Ndigbo, in conjunction with being a widow or widower.
Pst. Amb. Tessy Chika Nwokedi, Queen Ugoeze 1 and wife of the founder of the Foundation, admonished the attendees of the event, particularly speaking to the widows and widowers; she emphasised God’s compassion for widows, stressing that their grief and cries are heard by Him.
She shares insights on the pain of widowhood, the value of faith, and the importance of obedience to God’s word.
Pst. Tessy highlights biblical examples of widows who were blessed, encouraging widows to use whatever little they have to serve others and trust in God’s provision. She also addresses those still married, urging them to nurture their relationships, as God’s grace can transform painful circumstances. The overall message is one of hope, resilience, and reliance on God for support during difficult times.
Chief Martins, the chairman of Ohaneze Ndigbo Ijegun, describes the ongoing charitable efforts led by Eze Amb. Dr Chika Nwokedi, focused on providing support to widows and community members, as very thoughtful and exciting. This yearly initiative, he says, aims to positively impact the lives of these individuals. Unlike previous years, this particular effort was conducted without external direction; the foundation took the initiative independently, emphasising a personal commitment to sharing from the heart. Chief Martins expresses gratitude for the contributions made, noting the substantial impact it has had, with over 300 people receiving assistance, including food and various supplies. He acknowledges the efforts of Eze Chika in uplifting many lives through acts of generosity, reinforcing the importance of community support and philanthropy.
The founder of Eze Okpoko Foundation, Eze Amb. Dr Chika Nwokedi, the Ezendigbo of Ijegun Ijeododo, Chairman of the Council of Ndi’ Eze Igbo Lagos, Founder of the Ndigbo Buru’otu Association of Nigeria, and former Chairman of Ladipo, with contagious enthusiasm recounted how, year after year, he and his team hand out food, cash, and even parcels of land to those in need, turning ordinary days into moments of hope. The crowd—filled with grateful widows, supportive friends, and curious onlookers—listened as he explained the logistics, the challenges, and the sheer joy that comes from watching a smile light up a face that’s been through hardship. This year’s celebration, he says, marked by a lavish buffet and generous donations, underscored his unwavering commitment to turning compassion into action.
He said,
“I am deeply committed to my culture of helping those in need, especially widows, and I do this every month on the 12th or 13th. I find joy in their smiles as I bless them, regardless of the amount of resources I have. My friends from around the world support me financially, but I emphasise that the act of giving is what matters most. I believe that in life, true wealth is measured by how we touch the lives of others.”
“I strive to provide for others not only through money but also through food and fellowship. Every year, I plan better ways to support those in need, and I feel fulfilled seeing happiness in their faces. This year, I’ve made significant efforts, including providing food and cash blessings to widows and others requiring help. I maintain that God appreciates our efforts to help the least fortunate, equating our kindness to divine nourishment.”
“Additionally, I have made contributions beyond just food, such as donating land in Lagos and building homes for those in need. This is part of my ongoing mission to make a difference, and I continue to receive support from my community and friends, which fuels my endeavours. Each year, I pray for the strength to make my blessings more meaningful.”
“I acknowledge that challenges exist, yet my faith keeps me grounded, knowing that as long as my intentions are pure, I will prevail. I derive happiness from serving others, and I am encouraged by the prayers and support I receive from leaders and friends. Their sincerity brings me joy, reinforcing my belief that my efforts are recognised and valued by a higher purpose.”
Juliet Ndukwe and Mercy Dennis, who are widows and beneficiaries of the Eze Okpoko Foundation, express gratitude towards the organiser of the event for their gifting support to attendees, stating God’s blessings. Mercy Dennis mentions that it is her first time being a beneficiary of the Eze Okpoko event for widows and widowers, having learnt about it last year but only recently participating, while Juliet stated that she benefitted from four rounds of the gift items, making her go home with multiple gifts.
They both also convey blessings for the organisers, wishing them favour and continued support. Their statements capture a warm and appreciative atmosphere regarding community assistance and the individuals’ positive experiences.
Some other windows commented on the genuity and selfless efforts of the Eze Okpoko Foundation. Their statements capture a warm and appreciative atmosphere regarding community assistance and the individuals’ positive experiences. Unlike some other philanthropists, the widows noted that Eze Okpoko assists them freely, without imposing conditions or any dubious attachments. They commended his self-discipline and worthiness, further reinforcing the foundation’s positive reputation in the community.
The event featured several key highlights, which included a musical performance, admonitions from various speakers, and the presentation of various food items such as rice, semolina, yams, vegetable oil, and tomato paste. Additionally, there were presentations of gifts that consisted of wrappers, cash, and wristwatches.
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