A tribute to our Colleague and Friend Mrs. Ifeoma

It is an honour to write this short tribute to Ifeoma — a friend, colleague, teacher, scholar, educational administrator, wife, mother, and daughter. In whatever role we know her, from whatever vantage point, she stood apart as someone very special.

I first met Ifeoma at HolyChild Academy, Old Karu Road. She was the principal and founder of the School. Her special leadership abilities and charismatic personality were readily apparent. It was clear that she would most likely have an outstanding career as an educational leader. This first encounter marked the beginning of our longstanding professional friendship and collaboration.

Having observed those qualities in her, during the formation of our NGO/ Feminist Leadership I cannot think of anyone more deserving. With the company of Mr. Edwin, Ejike I approached her- without a moment pause she accepted our invitation and gave us a triple-digit to support the newly planted Ministry.

Our meeting with her that evening was clearly reflected in the words of Shree Bose who says:
“I think the best piece of advice I can give to anyone with a dream is to never be afraid to share your dreams and talk about what you wish to create and see in the world. It’s often hard to share those pipedreams at the risk that they might not work out, but you never know who has the collaborations, networks, and visions to make your dreams a reality. So be careful and vigilant and protect yourself intelligently of course, but never be afraid to ask for help.”

Though an engineering woman, she was focused on improving schools, business automation and what technology is enabling. She was a transformational leader and agent of change committed to building a nation devoid of gender discrimination, guaranteeing equal access to political, social and economic opportunities for women; and developing a culture that places premium on the protection of all. She had a gift of innovative thinking, a visionary spirit, and the tenacious patience required to successfully lead, advocate and establish a cause.
Having worked with Ifeoma quite a lot over the last few years, I learned a great deal about her love for her family. They were never far from her thoughts, and always made certain that she returned with “a special little something” for each of them. It was a privilege for me to have been a part of her life. Although much too short, her, was a life well lived! She was determined, visionary, collaborative, goal-oriented, caring person who loved life and all that it offered.

As the President of Women in ICT Foundation, she made a significant contribution and her work ethic more than remarkable; her public recognitions reveal that her, was a distinguished career of considerable import. Her enthusiasm for that next big project was infectious, and a huge component of her and the organization success. Until her death, she remained a creditable, committed and die-hard member of the organization.
Humility, Energy, commitment, integrity are all words that begin to capture my image of her.
Mrs. Ifeoma was diagnosed with Cancer. Though her treatment, involves multiple surgeries, it eventually progressed to other stages which eventually led to her untimely death.

She’ll be greatly missed by many, but never will she be forgotten by those who were fortunate enough to have known her.

TO COMMEMORATE HER DEATH, THE FOLLOWING SHALL BE OBSERVED.

A. Women in ICT Foundation will observe 4th February of every year (World Cancer Day) – aims to save millions of preventable deaths each year by;
1. Raising cancer awareness and education
2. Light up a significant landmark in our locality with the World Cancer Day colors.
3. Raise funds for cancer research
4. Translate materials so information is accessible to as many people as possible.
5. Spread the word with an op-ed, blog post, or recorded video message.
6. Post a personal message on social media.
7. Attend, participate or volunteer at a World Cancer Day event—or host our own event.
8. Give something and make a donation.

B. Observance of MOMENT OF SILENT in every of our annual AGM, events and gatherings.

C. Changing of the official logo of the organization to depict her image (Avatar) subject to approval by other members of the organization.
Cecify, I will remember you with all your special nuances and our memories from all the days gone that we were privileged to share with you.
Even though you’re gone, we still a team.
With a hand upon my heart, I feel The pride and respect; my reverence is revealed
In the tears that now stream down my face.
Death may be the greatest of all human blessings.
– Socrates

Thank you for everything!
Requiesce in pace
Your friend,
Kadiri, Ugbede-Ojo D.