Ime Akpan
A philanthropist, financial expert and public intellectual, Dr Doris Ochei, has been inaugurated as the patron of Otu Umunwanne Catholic Women Association of St Charles Borromeo Catholic Church, Ubulu-Uku in Aniocha South Local Government Area of Delta State.
Idonor Marvel, spokesperson for Ochei, said in a statement made to NewsGazette on Thursday that the philanthropist was inducted last Sunday, August 11, 2024 on the Church premises.
Marvel said the event attracted different Christian groups and denominations, friends, families and well-wishers to Ubulu-Uku.
According to the statement, Ochei is a “devout Christian woman” and a “believer in Christian charity as the highest form of love” who touches lives across different Christian denominations and faiths.
“This latest patronship in her kitty is in recognition of her contributions to the work of God, both in Ubulu-Uku and other places,” the statement said.
Ochei, who is the founder of DAO Foundation, also supports inclusive education and has provided scholarships and educational opportunities to pupils and students in different parts of Delta State.
Every December 26, she doles out scholarships, educational materials and funding to deserving students and schools.
Recently, she built a multi-purpose hall for her alma mater, Ezemu Girls’ Grammar School, Ubulu-Uku and also led the alumnae of the school in the reconstruction and renovation work of some classrooms.
A believer in female empowerment, Ochei also gives grants regularly to market women and small business owners in different communities in both Aniocha North and South area councils of the state.
In 2023, she built an ultra-modern market for the people of Onicha-Olona in Aniocha North area council.
As a public-spirited individual, she has also supports religious groups and provides guidance to many young people across age and gender.
In her acceptance speech, Ochei described her appointment as a “great honour.”
However, she remarked that “it is also not a recognition to take lightly.”
As a patron, she pledged to support the women in every way she could, be a source of encouragement and guidance as well as work tirelessly to help them achieve their goals.
Together, she said “we will continue to build a strong, vibrant community rooted in the love of Christ, the teachings of the Church and fellowship with one another.”
She remarked that she was deeply moved by the trust and confidence the organisation placed her.
“The role of a patron is both a privilege and a responsibility. It is a privilege to be associated with such a dedicated and compassionate group of women who embody the values of faith, love, charity, hope and service. It is a responsibility to support, guide, and inspire you as you continue your important work within our community,” she said.
She also acknowledged the role of women in the society and commended members of the association for being families and communities’ backbone that provide care, support and assistance in almost every area of life.
“As “Otu Umunwanne,” you are the heart and soul of our families and our faith. You nurture not only your own children, but also the spiritual and emotional well-being of those around you.
“Your commitment to living out the teachings of Christ in your daily lives is a testament to the strength and beauty of our faith.
“The importance of mothers in the Church and the larger society cannot be overemphasised at a time like this in our country.
“Therefore, I urge you to continue to be a guiding light that everyone needs,” she added.
She enjoined the women to embrace love, generosity, devotion and charity.
“In accepting this role, I am reminded of the words of St. Teresa of Calcutta, who once said, “Not all of us can do great things, but we can do small things with great love.”
“It is in the small, everyday acts of kindness, patience, and sacrifice that you make a profound impact on the lives of others. Your dedication to your families, your community, and your faith is a shining example of what it means to be a true disciple of Christ.
“Let us draw inspiration from the Blessed Virgin Mary, the ultimate example of a good Catholic mother. Her unwavering faith, her boundless love, and her steadfast devotion to God’s will are qualities we should all strive to emulate,” Ochei added.
