Nneka Chidoka would have celebrated her 76th birthday today, a milestone that serves as a poignant reminder of her enduring legacy.
Although she passed away last year after a courageous 15-year battle with cancer, her spirit of compassion lives on through the Nneka Chidoka Outreach Program.
Her life was extended thanks to an early diagnosis, a fact that deeply resonates with the program’s commitment to providing early cancer screenings for women who otherwise might not have access to such vital care.
To honour her memory, her son, Osita Chidoka, made a heartfelt post on social media—reaching out to female entrepreneurs, the very women his mother was so passionate about supporting.
The message was simple but powerful; women who run small businesses, either from their homes or small shops, with a modest daily turnover and a small team, were invited to reach out.
The response was overwhelming, over 50 women answered the call, and after a careful selection process, 10 were chosen to receive 100,000 Naira each. This financial support was a continuation of Nneka’s wish to empower women, helping them to grow their businesses and, in turn, support their communities.
But the Nneka Chidoka Outreach Program does more than just support entrepreneurs. During her memorial service, the program took on another of her passions; education. The program paid school fees for over 500 students in Obosi, giving them the opportunity to pursue their dreams without the burden of financial hardship. Education was always close to Nneka’s heart, and this act of kindness was a fitting tribute to her unwavering belief in the power of knowledge.
The outreach program’s commitment to health, particularly women’s health, is a testament to Nneka’s journey. More than 2000 women have been screened for cancer under the program, a crucial step in ensuring early detection and treatment. For those who needed it, free surgeries were provided—about 60 women received life-saving procedures.
The program’s efforts have also extended to treating over 1000 people for various other ailments, including providing corrective eyeglasses, which have brought clarity and improved quality of life to many.
Through the Nneka Chidoka Outreach Program, her legacy of care, compassion, and empowerment continues to touch the lives of countless people. It’s a living testament to the profound impact one woman’s life can have, even after she’s gone. Nneka Chidoka may no longer be with us, but her spirit, her values, and her love for her community live on, making the world a better place, one act of kindness at a time.
Nneka Chidoka Outreach Program: A Legacy of Compassion and Empowerment