Written By Achebe Chris, Esq.
Several Nigerian women are making significant impacts as Philanthropists, using their influence and resources to uplift the Nigerian society.
Barr. Lady Uju Catherine Ifejika(OFR), a goal-focused individual, leading corporate citizen, notable philanthropist, team player and one of the nation’s best is a shining example on the global stage. She is a successful Nigerian Lawyer and Chairperson/CEO of Brittania-U Nigeria Limited(BUNL); an indigenous petroleum company for upstream exploration and production. She says hardwork and a keen business savvy ensured that she quickly made a name for herself in the Oil and Gas industry in the world. But Ifejika is not someone who gives up easily. With her firm belief in God and family, she stuck it out. She stayed the course. She made the right connections and partnered with great people, who put Nigeria’s interest first. Guided by a relentless work ethic and a keen nose for a good deal, she waded through the debris and minefields inherent in the Oil sector to quickly become one of its mainstays. The good news would have been impossible without the commitment of one man: Chief Emmanuel Ifejika. Essentially, Lady Catherine Uju Ifejika’s success story serves as a beacon of inspiration for other women across the globe to excel in their fields of human endeavour.
Just as she applied her talents and personal industry to building an impressive business network, she also has dedicated herself to caring for others whom society often neglects.
In pursuit of this humanitarian goal, Ifejika has stated that Brittania-U’s main objective includes people’s well-being, a better quality of life, job opportunities and a safe and clean environment. The Nigerian company with a global perspective, embodies the humanitarian spirit of its founder by seeking to partner local Nigerian communities, create life-improving economic opportunities and engaging in community development programmes.
With passion for charity, during the celebration of her 60th birthday anniversary, Ifejika reached out to the less-privileged at the Holy Family Home For The Elderly situate at Regina Mundi Catholic Church, Lagos State. By the truckload, they received food items and other materials, including valid cheque that will enrich their lives. Smiles lit the faces of these elderly. But, for many of them, it was as if Christmas had managed to come in October. Yet, there is more. Lady Uju Ifejika reached out to SOS Children’s Village in Isolo, Lagos State, and Agnus Dei Missionary Apostolate for the Poorest of the Poor, Lagos State-Nigeria. Her birthday largesse gives insight into her commitment to the elderly and the vulnerable in society. Ifejika is on the cutting edge of the less-privileged overall well-being and empowerment.
Deeply religious, Ifejika is very much a representation of many modern business women with strong Christian roots. She attributes her charity nature to a life-long dedication to Christianity. She has made philanthropy a defining attribute of her life.
As a Philanthropist extra-ordinaire, she has maintained a sterling reputation of promoting public charities. She has also made substantial donations to the Prof. Engr. Philip Nwabueze Atanmo Annual Igbo Essay Competition for Secondary School Students in Igbo-speaking States. The noble Igbo cause was instituted to encourage the younger generation to build capacity in the areas of Igbo speaking, writing and research, further solidifying the rich legacy of High Chief Prof. (Engr.) Philip Nwabueze Atanmo (Isimmili Ogidi).
Lady Uju Ifejika (OFR), has received several national and international awards, including the 2013 African Businesswoman Award from Black Pumps, a non-profit women’s organization based in Los Angeles, California.
Another feather was again added to her cap with the “Woman of Inestimable Value and Heart of Gold Award”, by the prestigious Pan-Igbo socio-cultural organization, Anambra Central People’s Forum.
Ifejika’s career trajectory can be said to have been solidly built over the years upon the virtues of integrity, humility and loyalty. A careful study of her life is enough lessons for the next generation of leaders who wish to leave a legacy on the sands of time! She is a ready reference for good works, committed to making an impact on the lives and welfare of others. This, she has demonstrated over and again, with her succeeding flow of humanitarian support to people and communities. Her role in public philanthropy and human capital development is increasingly recognized as a transformative force in the Nigeria’s socio-economic landscape.
While her lucrative but competitive Nigerian Oil and Gas industry is not for the feint-hearted, Barr. Lady Uju Catherine Ifejika (OFR), proves that one does not have to be cold-hearted to succeed. Just as she has been more profitable than most, she also has been more generous than most. In addition to the help she provides the poor and distressed, her efforts convey an important message to fellow businesswomen. She personifies a successful business model, one that strikes a positive balance between private gain and public purpose. She is a woman of quintessence and valour who will continue to make a difference for people in need. As such, her willingness to give, may one day, prove to be her best and most lasting legacy!
