Over 150 widows and indigents in Ebonyi State received gifts, including food items, clothing, and cash worth over ₦1 million, during a special Christmas empowerment event organized by the Universal Outreach for Women Empowerment Initiative (UNOWEMI).
The faith-based NGO, which operates as the charity arm of the Universal Christian Ministry of All Nations, held the event to spread joy and provide support to the less privileged during the festive season.
Speaking at the event, the Ebonyi State Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Rev. Scamb Chinedum Nwokolo, urged politicians, business leaders, and individuals to prioritize charity and kindness, especially during Christmas. He said, “This season is a call to show love to those around us, to sacrifice for others, no matter how small, and make a lasting impact on their lives.”
Evangelist Abigail Eze-Iheukwumere, the CEO of UNOWEMI and a Programs Manager at the Nigeria Television Authority, Abakaliki, highlighted the NGO’s mission of uplifting widows and vulnerable individuals. She shared that the organization has provided housing, rent payments, and free skills acquisition training to help women become entrepreneurs.
She explained, “Our annual Christmas party is a reenactment of our commitment to care for widows and indigents, giving them a sense of belonging during this season of joy.” Eze-Iheukwumere revealed the NGO’s goal to reach over one million widows in the next five years, a vision made possible by personal savings and donations from partners.
In his sermon, the guest preacher, Right Rev. Chidi Igwe of the Presbyterian Church of Nigeria, Abakaliki Synod, reminded Christians of the biblical call to care for widows, orphans, and the needy. He warned against neglecting these groups, stressing that such actions could attract God’s displeasure.
Right Rev. Igwe also encouraged widows to maintain faith and peace, assuring them of God’s unending support and justice.
Miracle Nwankwo, daughter of the CAN Chairman and a key partner of the NGO, expressed gratitude for the resources to reach out to the less privileged. She also requested prayers for the organization’s continued success.
Several beneficiaries, including Blessing Ofobuike and Ngozi Nweke, praised the NGO for its consistency in uplifting widows and creating positive change in their lives.
The event served as a reminder of the true essence of Christmas—love, giving, and community.
