Owerri — What began as a recognition of service to young people and women took on a deeper significance on Saturday, September 26, 2026, as former Imo State First Lady, Dr. Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu (Ada Owere), was honoured with the prestigious “Beacon of Motherhood” Award by the Catholic Youth Organization of Nigeria (CYON), Owerri Archdiocese.
The award was presented at the Maria Assumpta Cathedral, Owerri, where Anyanwu-Akeredolu received the honour with humility and gratitude, describing it as both a recognition and a reminder of the responsibilities that come with serving and supporting others.
According to her, the concept of motherhood extends beyond biological childbirth to include nurturing, protecting, mentoring, encouraging and creating opportunities for others to fulfil their potential.
Reflecting on the circumstances that led to the honour, she acknowledged Aku Augustine, a young man from her hometown of Emeabiam, whom she credited with facilitating the courtesy visit that eventually resulted in her invitation to the event.
She also highlighted her longstanding engagement with young people, particularly through the BEMORE Empowered Girls Foundation, an initiative through which she has worked with girls to encourage them to overcome societal limitations and pursue their aspirations.
Her message, she said, has consistently been summed up in the expression “Be More”—encouraging young people to rise above their circumstances and also become a source of value and support to others.
Addressing the youth of Owerri Archdiocese, Anyanwu-Akeredolu urged them to see themselves not merely as leaders of tomorrow but as participants in leadership and community development today.
She encouraged them to pursue knowledge, build character, embrace discipline and compassion, demonstrate courage and use their abilities in the service of society.
The former First Lady also spoke about civic participation, urging young people and women to take an active interest in the democratic process, including voter registration, obtaining their Permanent Voter’s Cards and participating in elections.
She further disclosed her aspiration to represent Owerri Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, saying her intention is to provide representation for the people and advocate for issues affecting the constituency.
Describing motherhood as the ability to give life not only to children but also to “dreams, hope, confidence and possibilities,” she dedicated the recognition to women who, often quietly, serve as sources of support and guidance in their communities.
She specifically acknowledged mothers, teachers, widows, mentors and women who provide care and opportunities for children and young people.
As part of her support for youth development, Anyanwu-Akeredolu also made a donation to CYON, Owerri Archdiocese, in recognition of the organization’s role in nurturing and empowering young people.
She expressed appreciation to the leadership and members of CYON, particularly the Chairman of the Planning Committee, Engr. Vincent Ugochukwu Ezeakor; the Archdiocesan Youth President, Engr. Emmanuel Chukwuemeka; and the Archdiocesan CYON Chaplain, Rev. Fr. Jude Chukwu.
In a memorable reflection on the significance of the honour, Anyanwu-Akeredolu described the award as “not a full stop, but a comma”—symbolising that there remains more work to be done in empowering young people, supporting girls, strengthening families and contributing to community development.
She concluded by encouraging young people to make meaningful contributions wherever they find themselves, urging them to begin from where they are, utilise the resources available to them and deploy their talents in service to others.
Expressing her appreciation to CYON, Owerri Archdiocese, she said the recognition reinforced the importance of investing in and believing in the potential of young people.
“Let us continue to light the way for one another,” she said.
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