BY RITA OYIBOKA
She truly came forth like a flower, radiant, colourful, fragrant. And just like that, she was cut down. But not before spreading warmth, strength, and light. Not before leaving imprints of grace, laughter, and service on the sands of time.
We are mere mortals, unable to query the Almighty. Yet, in absolute surrender to His will, we recount the remarkable journey of a woman who lived for others, a beloved sister, Comrade Ifukor Philomena Ngozi, fondly called Nwada-One of Iweze.
*Early Beginnings: Making Of A Star*
Born on November 5, 1960, in Ukwani Local Government Area, Nwada came into the world as the first child of Reverend Abel Ifukor of Eziokpor and Deaconess Agnes Obasohan of Ebedei.
From her earliest days, it was clear that little Ngozi was special. Sharp-witted, generous, and endearing, she was the kind of child other children gravitated toward. Her home was a gathering place, her toys shared freely, and her warm spirit was already at work.
Life, however, threw an early curveball when her parents separated. But rather than break her spirit, it refined her. Moving between relatives and shouldering responsibility beyond her years, she matured quickly, becoming a pillar for her younger siblings and a dependable presence to those around her.
Nwada’s educational journey spanned several communities, thanks to her father’s frequent transfers as a teacher. From Roman Catholic Primary School, Eziokpor to Iyia-Atu Primary School, Utagba-Ogbe, she adapted quickly, made friends easily, and always stood out.
She began her secondary education at Aganbi Grammar School, where she soon made a name for herself, not just for academic aptitude, but for her courage and conviction.
Her athletic prowess shone too, earning her laurels in track and field events and widespread admiration. Her secondary years concluded at Utagba-Ogbe Grammar School in 1980, where her love for sports continued to flourish.
Even after many years of work, her hunger for knowledge remained insatiable. She earned a Bachelor’s degree in Mass Communication from Delta State University, Abraka, in 2010, and undertook several professional trainings, including advanced Telex Operation at NITEL’s Engineering Technical Training Centre, Oshodi.
The Worker, The Warrior
Nwada’s career with the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), Refinery Warri, began in 1983 and spanned 35 years. She was more than just a worker, she was a force. Dedicated, diligent, and principled, she earned multiple awards for outstanding service.
She was deeply involved in unionism, rising to become the Zonal Vice Chairperson of PENGASSAN (2006–2009). Her contributions helped improve welfare conditions for countless workers.
Her love for football remained undiminished. A proud supporter of the NNPC team, she travelled widely with them, cheering them with her unmistakable voice. A loss would move her to tears, such was her passion.
She retired in 2018 after a rich, impactful career. But her influence did not end with her retirement.
The Woman After God’s Heart
Faith was the cornerstone of Nwada’s life. Baptised in the 1970s by Revd. T.C. Uzoh, she served her church passionately. At Zion Baptist Church, Ekpan, she was active in the children’s ministry, the drama group, and several church committees.
In 1992, she married and brought her boundless energy and generosity into her new home, touching the lives of her in-laws deeply. When the union succumbed to societal pressures over childlessness, Nwada remained dignified. Though her bride price was refunded, her spirit was never broken.
In time, she was blessed with a son, Ekundayo Chukwusombi Odenusi, whose name, meaning “my joy has returned”.
To describe Nwada as sociable is to understate her magnetism. Her friendships cut across age, tribe, religion, and class. Her door was always open, her home always full, her heart ever welcoming.
She was known for saying “it can only get better”, a mantra she lived by, even through trials. A natural storyteller and peacemaker, she had a sharp wit and a deeper well of wisdom. Whether resolving conflicts, lifting spirits, or cracking jokes with nurses in her hospital bed, she remained a radiant presence.
*A Beautiful Exit*
After a brave battle with cancer, Nwada-one of Iweze took her final bow on May 18, 2025, at the University Teaching Hospital, Gwagwalada, FCT. Despite the best efforts of her family and medical professionals, her earthly journey ended, and heaven welcomed back a gem.
She is survived by her son, siblings, cousins, extended family, friends, colleagues, and church members, each carrying a part of her light.
Her final journey will begin with a Service of Songs on June 19, 2025, followed by a Funeral Service at Obiaruku Grammar School on June 21, with interment at a family residence in Obiaruku. A Thanksgiving Service will be held on June 29, 2025 at Zion Baptist Church, Agadaga Ekpan.
In a world that often moves too fast to appreciate people fully, Comrade Philomena Ngozi Ifukor lived a life that demanded notice and inspired gratitude. She was elegance wrapped in empathy, laughter wrapped in leadership, and strength wrapped in sacrifice.
As we say goodbye, we hold on to her memory, her words, her songs, and her legendary kolanuts. Nwada, rest well. Your flower may be cut down, but your fragrance will linger forever.
