By Regina Igwebuike
In a grand celebration of a life devoted to service, Princess Dr. Jessie Ifeoma Udoka-Menuba, CEO and Founder Queen-Tovah Cares Foundation Int’l is conferred with the prestigious title of ‘Iyom Odogwu Ijele Nwanyi 1 Worldwide’ by Otu Odu Iyom, Anambra State and Diaspora. This esteemed honor recognizes her unwavering commitment to uplifting humanity, transcending boundaries of class, creed, tribe, and affiliation.
Princess Udoka-Menuba, a trailblazer in every sense, has consistently championed the causes of the marginalized, empowering widows, caring for motherless children, and promoting Igbo heritage. Her impactful work has earned her numerous accolades, including Ahaejiejemba 1 Worldwide, Woman of the Decade, Philanthropist of the 21st Century, Distinguished Ambassador of Christ, Mother Theresa of the 21st Century, Mother General, and Anyanwu Ututu 1 of Omasi Kingdom and worldwide.
Speaking during the event at Basino Hotels, Awka, HRH, Igwe Uchenna Sunday Okonkwo, Okpaligwe Amawbia noted that Princess Udoka-Menuba sets to shine and is poised for greatness. “She will go from strength to strength, full of wisdom, working tirelessly for Amawbia, Awka South, Anambra State, Nigeria and globally. We’re proudly upholding traditions passed down by our forefathers – rich cultural heritage. The initiation of Iyom is a revered rite for women, rooted in Igbo culture, reflecting dignity, strength, and uniqueness.”
Okpaligwe adviced Igbos: “Don’t throw away your culture! Embrace it, showcase it to the world”.
HRH, Igwe (Dr) Benjamin Okeji (Ezedioramma of Omasi) and other well-wishers were over the moon about Iyom Jessie Udoka-Menuba’s installation as Iyom. “I’m happy about today’s event,” Igwe Okeji gyped, praying that God blinks her with blessings, long life, wealth, and happiness.
HRHs Igwe JC Agudo, Egashi Ukwalla; Eze FC Okoli, Okwaeze IV Ndiokpalaeze; and Okeke Michael Okoye, Obadike Akataka Umuem Anam joined in, saying, “We are happy for what Jessie did today, it’s a good thing. We pray God blesses her, grants her long life, good health, and she’ll not lack good things.”
Nze Oluchukwu David Anaekwe added, “Iyom Jessie is a good woman and she merits this installation because she’s a woman of the people. God will guide her peacefully, God will bless and give her more.
“As she adds another feather to her cap, we celebrate a true humanitarian. Her legacy inspires us to strive for excellence in service to others. Congratulations, Iyom! Your unwavering dedication has earned you a place among the revered”.
Nze Emma Nwokoye, Ezeudo Okwulora from Amawbia joins the celebration! “Today’s event is custom and tradition in the world,” he says, as Ndi Igwe, Ozos and Nzes gather to witness the Igba Odu ceremony of Princess Udoka-Menuba. A testament to her kindness, Dr. Menuba “goes out of her way to help people. Amawbia’s Pride Shines Bright. It shall be well with her. Kudos to this Amawbia gem.
Representing Iyom Odogwu Ijele Nwanyi 1 worldwide, Hon. Mrs Gladys Edi beaming with joy said, “Ndi Otu Odu worldwide gave Jessie Menuba the award she deserved. She’s a generous, hardworking woman helping the poor. I’m dancing and jubilating for her. May God bless her, her work, children, and family. Whatever she touches will prosper. A good woman from Nimo, enemies won’t overshadow her”.
Earlier, Iyom Adadioramma Chika Chukwurah, President Otu Odu Nigeria and Diaspora explained that Igba Odu is a deeply symbolic and revered traditional rite through which a woman is formally inducted into a circle of honor, ancestral acknowledgment, and moral authority, earned through years of proven character, exemplary conduct, community contribution, and a life marked by integrity and responsibility.
According to her, It is a sacred journey, one that connects a woman to her heritage, reinforces her place in society, and elevates her as a beacon of virtue and leadership within the community.
Odu rituals and sumptuous entertainment added glamour to the occasion.
Regina is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State
