By Stanley Onyekwere
Family members, members of the clergy, community leaders, and well-wishers gathered on Sunday at Chief Ubani’s Compound in Umuala Nsulu, Isiala Ngwa, Abia State, to celebrate the enduring legacy of the late Lady Rachel A. Ubani during her second memorial and reception service.
reached a significant milestone with the official launch of The Lady Rachel Ubani Foundation, a Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO) established to perpetuate her lifetime commitment to humanitarian service, community empowerment, and Christian faith.
The day’s proceedings commenced following a memorial service at St. Gabriel’s Anglican Church, Umuala Nsulu Parish, where a solemn procession led family members and distinguished guests from the church to the graveside at Chief Ubani’s Compound.
Rt. Rev’d Temple Nwaogu, Bishop of the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), Diocese of Isiala Ngwa, officiated the graveside consecration.
He led prayers for peace, unity, and continuous grace upon the Ubani family, after which the children of the deceased solemnly laid wreaths at the grave in honor of their late mother.
Following the graveside rites, guests were warmly received at Chief Ubani’s Compound in accordance with traditional Igbo hospitality, which featured the symbolic breaking of kola nuts and prayers for long life, prosperity, and communal peace.
The central highlight of the event was the official unveiling of The Lady Rachel Ubani Foundation.
Introducing the unveiling ceremony, the organisers noted that Lady Rachel’s devotion to humanity extended far beyond words into tangible acts of compassion.
To ensure her altruistic spirit endures for generations, Dr. Emmanuel Akwuruoha was called upon to perform the official ceremony.
Dr. Akwuruoha delivered the keynote address and subsequently cut the ceremonial ribbon to formally declare the foundation open.
Speaking on behalf of the family on the vision of the NGO, Dr. Chinweuba Ubani outlined its core aims and objectives, emphasizing that the organization is strictly anchored on faith and selfless service.
He stated that the primary goals of the foundation are to uplift widows, care for orphans, support the less privileged, and strengthen the local church.
Dr. Ubani added that, inspired by Lady Rachel’s life, the foundation seeks to demonstrate God’s love through compassionate service, economic empowerment, and sustainable support to those in dire need.
The reception also featured poignant two-minute tributes from Lady Rachel’s children, each reflecting on her extraordinary impact as a mother, mentor, and pillar of faith.
Dr. Chinweuba Ubani opened the tributes, remarking: "Our mother taught us that true greatness is measured by how much we give to others, and this foundation is our commitment to keeping her generous spirit alive."
Similarly, Dr. Chioma Utsalo spoke fondly of her mother’s steadfast devotion, noting: "Mama was an anchor of prayer who instilled in us the power of unconditional love, resilience, and unshakeable trust in God."
Also, Dr. Ugochi Ubani highlighted her maternal warmth and community outreach, stating: "She was a refuge for the brokenhearted, and her home was always open to anyone in need of comfort, advice, or a meal."
On her part, Dr. Ogonnaya Ubani-Emeka concluded the family tributes, sharing: "Mama’s legacy is not just written on gravestones, but etched into the countless lives she touched, feed, and uplifted throughout her journey on earth."
She noted that the NGO will boost the impact of a matriarch whose memory continues to inspire her family and community
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