A wave of emotion and gratitude swept through the Udenu Local Government Area of Enugu State on Tuesday, December 30, 2025, as the Ichakporoko Foundation hosted a large festive outreach, providing much-needed relief and “holiday smiles” to hundreds of indigent widows in the area.
The event, titled the “Ichakporoko Charity Fair 2025,” involved the distribution of essential food items and cash grants to over 200 women.
The atmosphere was electric, filled with songs of praise and tears of relief as beneficiaries—many of whom have struggled with the rising cost of living—received packages containing bags of rice.
The beneficiaries were drawn from the 31 autonomous communities that make up the Local Government Area.
The special event was attended by all the traditional rulers from the autonomous communities, as well as local political leaders.
Speaking on behalf of the late Chief Michael Odo Abonyi, a prominent political figure in the region and the foundation’s namesake, Dr. Godwin Abonyi, one of his sons and former Chairman of Udenu Local Government Area, noted that the charity fair was organized in the spirit of his late father, who was known for his generosity and concern for the less privileged.
The Chairman of the Foundation, Maj-Gen. Godwin Ugwuoke (rtd), explained that the charity fair is the Foundation’s way of contributing to societal development by helping the less fortunate. General Ugwuoke also expressed the foundation’s concern for the challenges faced by the needy in difficult times.
The Vice -Chairman of Udenu Local Government Area traditional rulers Council Igwe Mathew Agbo of Obollo Nkwo who chaired the gathering commended the Foundation for their generous spirit. During the vote of thanks, Igwe Romanus Odoh of Umuezejor also commended the foundation for living up to expectations.
Former Nigerian High Commissioner to India, Maj-Gen. (rtd) Chris Eze, praised the charitable spirit of the Ichakporoko Foundation and remembered the selfless leadership that inspired the establishment of the foundation.
General Eze expressed a desire to participate in the program next year if invited.
The Chairman of Udenu Local Government, Hon. Akachukwu Eze Aka, who was represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Local Government, Hon Chika Aroh commended the foundation for its selfless contributions to community development and care for the less privileged.
He emphasized that the Charity Fair is not just about distributing food; it is about restoring dignity and ensuring that these women feel seen, loved, and supported by their community.
The Local Government Chairman, who attended as the Special Guest of Honor, further praised the foundation’s efforts, noting that public-private partnerships like this are crucial for grassroots development.
For many beneficiaries, the intervention came at a critical time. One mother of four, who lost her husband three years ago, could barely contain her joy.
“I didn’t know how I was going to feed my children this New Year,” she said, clutching her portion of the relief items.
“This foundation has brought light into my home. May God continue to bless them for remembering us.”
As the event concluded, the foundation’s leadership reaffirmed its commitment to helping the downtrodden in society.
A highlight of the event was a motivational talk on community development and political awareness, delivered by Mr. Celestine Odo, Head of Program at Action Aid Nigeria, an international non-profit organization, and Mr. Igwebuike Abonyi, Chairman of the Obollo Development Association (ODA).
