The family of the late Lady Rachel A. Ubani has unveiled a foundation in her honour to sustain her legacy of humanitarian service, Christian faith and community empowerment.
The unveiling took place on Sunday at Chief Ubani’s Compound in Umuala Nsulu, Isiala Ngwa, Abia State, during a memorial and reception service marking the second anniversary of her death.
The event brought together family members, clergy, community leaders and well-wishers to celebrate the life and enduring impact of the late matriarch.
Proceedings began with a memorial service at St. Gabriel’s Anglican Church, Umuala Nsulu Parish, before a solemn procession led the family and guests to the deceased’s graveside at Chief Ubani’s Compound.
The Bishop of the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), Diocese of Isiala Ngwa, Rt. Rev. Temple Nwaogu, officiated the graveside consecration and offered prayers for peace, unity and continued grace upon the Ubani family.
The deceased’s children subsequently laid wreaths at their mother’s grave in her honour.
Guests were later received at the family compound in keeping with traditional Igbo hospitality, featuring the symbolic breaking of kola nuts and prayers for long life, prosperity and communal peace.
The highlight of the gathering was the formal unveiling of The Lady Rachel Ubani Foundation, established to preserve the late matriarch’s commitment to helping the less privileged and strengthening her community.
Introducing the ceremony, the organisers said Lady Rachel’s devotion to humanity went beyond words, finding expression in practical acts of compassion.
Dr. Emmanuel Akwuruoha, who was invited to perform the unveiling, delivered the keynote address before cutting the ceremonial ribbon to formally declare the foundation open.
Speaking on behalf of the family, Dr. Chinweuba Ubani outlined the foundation’s vision, saying it would be guided by Christian faith and selfless service.
He said its core objectives include supporting widows, caring for orphans, assisting the less privileged and strengthening the local church.
According to him, the foundation would draw inspiration from Lady Rachel’s life by demonstrating God’s love through compassionate service, economic empowerment and sustainable support for people in need.
The reception also featured tributes from the deceased’s children, who reflected on her influence as a mother, mentor and pillar of faith.
Dr. Chinweuba Ubani, who opened the tributes, said: “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.”
Dr. Chioma Utsalo described her late mother as a devoted woman of prayer whose values shaped the family’s outlook on life.
“Mama was an anchor of prayer who instilled in us the power of unconditional love, resilience, and unshakeable trust in God,” she said.
Also paying tribute, Dr. Ugochi Ubani highlighted her mother’s compassion and willingness to offer help to people in need.
“She was a refuge for the brokenhearted, and her home was always open to anyone in need of comfort, advice, or a meal,” she said.
Dr. Ogonnaya Ubani-Emeka, in her tribute, said her mother’s legacy extended beyond her final resting place to the many lives she touched during her lifetime.
“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 said.
She expressed hope that the foundation would extend the impact of a woman whose life and service continue to inspire her family and community.
