By Chinaza Osigwe
A philanthropist and businessman, Chief Ikenna Okafor, has awarded scholarships to over 200 students from Akwaeze community in Anaocha Local Government Area of Anambra State, alongside the provision of free healthcare services to vulnerable residents.The scholarships were awarded under the Idi Ezeani Nzekwuabuo Foundation, a charitable organisation established by Okafor in honour of his late father, Chief Paulinus Okafor. The foundation supports educational advancement and social welfare initiatives within the community.The beneficiaries included 41 primary school pupils, 57 secondary school students and more than 100 students from tertiary institutions, including public and private universities as well as seminary schools.Primary school pupils received ₦40,000 each, secondary school students were given ₦80,000 each, while tertiary institution students received between ₦400,000 and ₦1 million.In addition to the scholarships, widows, widowers, persons living with disabilities, sickle cell carriers and other vulnerable individuals benefited from the programme. Pregnant women and residents with various health conditions also received free medical services sponsored by the foundation.The event, which commenced with a Catholic Mass, featured testimonies from past scholarship beneficiaries, many of whom have completed their studies.Speaking at the occasion, the foundation’s secretary, Rev. Fr. Alphonsus Ezeoke, described the 2025 edition as an improvement on previous years, noting that the foundation has operated for over 20 years.He commended the Okafor family for their sustained commitment to education and humanitarian service, describing their contributions as impactful and enduring.Addressing journalists, Chief Okafor said the scholarship initiative was aimed at strengthening the community through education and reducing illiteracy over time.According to him, the foundation has also expanded into agricultural support and healthcare interventions to improve overall living conditions in Akwaeze.“Our goal is to liberate our people from illiteracy and hardship. When education, healthcare and food security are addressed, the community will experience lasting transformation,” he said.
