By Samson Adeyanju
The President of the Laity Council of St. Luke’s Catholic Parish, Kubwa, Abuja, Mrs. Chizoba Okonkwo, has marked her 50th birthday with a renewed commitment to humanitarian service, particularly the welfare of vulnerable children, while urging Nigerian families to strengthen their faith in God and protect the sanctity of marriage.
The thanksgiving celebration, which began with a Holy Mass at St. Luke’s Catholic Parish, Kubwa, and culminated in a grand reception at the NYSC Orientation Camp, Kubwa, drew family members, church leaders, professional colleagues, community associations and well-wishers from across the country.
Speaking at the reception, her husband, Engr. Ikenna Okonkwo, a Fellow of the Nigerian Society of Engineers (FNSE), credited his wife’s unwavering support and selflessness as the foundation of his charitable engagements and professional accomplishments over their 21 years of marriage.
According to him, many beneficiaries of his philanthropic activities are unaware that his wife’s encouragement and sacrifices have sustained his commitment to serving others.
“There is something behind every good thing people see, and that is the woman we are celebrating today. Without a supportive wife, you cannot sustain this level of commitment to serving people,” he said.
He described Mrs. Okonkwo as a humble and contented woman whose passion for service outweighs material possessions, noting that despite travelling widely, including two visits to the Vatican, she remains modest and focused on impacting lives.
Recalling discussions ahead of her golden jubilee, Engr. Okonkwo said he offered to replace her 13-year-old vehicle or sponsor another overseas vacation, but she rejected both proposals.
“The only thing she requested was that we should feed people. That is why everyone here is sharing in this celebration. Her joy is in serving others,” he added.
In her remarks, Mrs. Okonkwo thanked God for preserving her life and appreciated her husband, family, friends and associates for their unwavering support.
“I thank the Almighty God for my life. I thank my lovely husband, my family and everyone who came to celebrate with me. May God bless you all, protect your families and grant your heart’s desires,” she prayed.
Speaking with journalists after the event, the celebrant described attaining the age of 50 as a testimony to God’s faithfulness and said her next phase of life would be devoted to expanding her humanitarian efforts.
“My greatest wish is to help small children. I keep praying that God will give me the strength and opportunity to do more for them,” she said.
She also advised Nigerian women to build their homes on faith, love and mutual understanding, warning against allowing third-party interference to undermine marriages.
“Always put God first in everything you do. Love your family, especially your husband. Every marriage has challenges, but don’t allow third parties to destroy your home. Pray together and trust God,” she advised.
Born on July 5, 1976, in Enugu State, Mrs. Okonkwo hails from Ubaha Umunze in Orumba South Local Government Area of Anambra State. She holds a National Certificate in Education in Mathematics/Economics and a degree in Economics from Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka.
Since joining the Daughters of Charity Hospital, Kubwa, Abuja, in 2006, she has risen through the ranks from receptionist to Head of the Front Desk Unit, reflecting two decades of dedicated service.
Beyond her professional career, Mrs. Okonkwo has distinguished herself in church and community leadership, serving in numerous capacities within the Catholic Church and socio-cultural organisations.
She is currently the President of the Laity Council of St. Luke’s Catholic Parish, Kubwa, having previously served as President of the Catholic Women Organisation (CWO), Treasurer of the Laity Council, two-time member of the Parish Pastoral Council and matron of several parish groups.
Her tenure as CWO President was marked by the empowerment of more than 30 women through vocational skills acquisition and trade support, earning her recognition as a champion of community development and women’s empowerment.
A devoted Catholic, Mrs. Okonkwo continues to play active roles in parish development, humanitarian initiatives and grassroots community service.
Tributes from church leaders, associates and family members described her as a compassionate leader, dedicated church worker and advocate of selfless service whose life of faith, humility and generosity continues to inspire many Nigerians.
