My Role Model

 By Chibuihe Chikere

 A young girl named Favour Chibuihe Chikere wrote this heartfelt piece about her mother. Through her simple but powerful words, she paints a picture of love, respect, and gratitude. Her story shows the strength and care that mothers give and how deeply they shape their children’s lives.

 

Favour Chibuihe Chikere with her beloved mum.

The person I cherish and admire the most is none other than my God-gifted mother. Her name is Mrs. Judith Chimuanya Chikere. She is fair in complexion and of average height. She is both a trader and a housewife. She is 35 years old.

I admire her because she possesses most of the qualities we need to succeed in life. One thing that makes her unique among others is that she is caring, loving, and understanding. There is a saying that behind every successful man, there is a woman. My mother truly supports my father. She knows when my dad has money and when he doesn’t. She understands my feelings and those of my siblings. She knows when we are sick and when we are healthy.

One of her most endearing qualities is her genuineness. She has always been my source of inspiration and pillar of strength. She is endowed with great wisdom and is often called upon to speak about community problems. Everyone in my community knows her as the women’s leader.

She is a good cook and prepares meals for the family without complaint. She is truly a role model and an example to other women. She is a peacemaker who never likes to see people quarrelling.

She attended her primary and secondary education at Ambassador International School, Ifakala. She stopped schooling because of a lack of money and the sudden death of her father. Yet, she remains a woman of great wisdom and knowledge.

She supports me, gives me confidence, makes me laugh, cheers me up, and wipes my tears. She is my joy-giver, a mother as precious and lasting as a diamond. She is the most protective person I have ever met, and she has an amiable personality. She is always there for me and my siblings, like a flawless diamond shining with love and care.

Her hobbies are telling stories and watching movies. She also enjoys resolving disputes and finds joy in making peace. Her favourite sport is table tennis. She loves going to church and never likes missing service. She always advises us to take part in the things of God.

She will always be the one I admire and love the most.

Favour Chibuihe Chikere's beloved mother

This touching essay was written by Favour Chibuihe Chikere, a bright young student, in honour of her mother. Her words reflect love, gratitude, and the strength of women who nurture families and inspire their children to dream. It is published here to celebrate her voice and encourage young writers to express themselves boldly.

Favour Chibuihe Chikere

If this essay touched your heart, please leave a kind comment below to encourage Favour. Every word of support can inspire a young writer to keep believing in her dreams. 

My Rare Gem

 By Mary-Jane Emeka

This lovely story was written by a young girl named Mary-Jane Emeka. Her words show deep love and respect for her mother. The way she describes her mother’s strength, kindness, and beauty shows how special mothers are and how much they do for their children. This story is shared to encourage her and inspire other young people to write about the people they love.

Blessing Ejiogu, the writer's mum

My rare gem, my beautiful mum, my one and only source of joy, the one who brought me into this beautiful world, the one whose name works for her everywhere she goes. Her beautiful and angelic name is Blessing Ejiogu, the only daughter of her late parents.

My mum is in her early forties. She is of average height and dark in complexion. Her favourite colour is pink. She was born on 5th February 1982. My mum comes from a family of eight, and she is the fourth child.

My mum’s best food is yam and egg. She is a full-time housewife for now because she has an unfinished project. She is a jovial woman with style. She plays a lot but is very focused. My mum was born and brought up in Lagos State. She hates staying in a dirty place.

My mum is an undergraduate because she couldn’t continue her studies when her father died after being struck by an arrow sent by her uncle. While she was still in school, she studied business. My mum suffered with her mother after her father’s death before she got married to my amazing dad.

My mum, Blessing, is often called Adaukwu, Ngozi, Ble Ble, and many more. She is a very strong woman who can do anything to care for her family. She is caring and generous and can release her savings just to help others.

My mum is a talented woman with many skills. She can make beautiful hairstyles without being taught, she has an angelic and melodious voice that can brighten anyone’s day, and she cooks delicious food that makes you want more.

She is a member of Redeemed Christian Church of God, but she got married in a Catholic church. My mum believes in God and takes part in any church activity whenever there is one.

My mum has both good and bad sides, but her good side is greater. Her bad side sometimes scares me. When she’s angry, she can shout at someone without being sure they are at fault, and sometimes, when she is really angry, she beats us, her children, until she is satisfied. Later, she feels sorry and regrets it.

My mum has a gap tooth that makes her smile even more beautiful.

No woman is as beautiful and virtuous as my mum, and that is why she is a rare gem. I am so glad that God gave me a rare gem, a beautiful paragon every child would love to have. I love her so much. She is one in a million. Thank you, God, for my beautiful mum.

This beautiful essay was written by Mary-Jane Emeka to honour her mother. Her words show the love and respect every child should have for their parents. We celebrate her for writing from her heart and sharing this touching story with us.

What do you love most about your mother?

 Share your thoughts in the comment section below!

 

A Rare Gem and My Superheroine

 By Precious-Gold Orieukwu

This touching story, A Rare Gem and My Superheroine, was written by Precious-Gold Orieukwu, a young girl who deeply admires her mother. In this piece, she shares from her heart how much her mother means to her, a woman of strength, beauty, and love who inspires her every day.

 

Precious-Gold Orieukwu, the writer of this heartwarming piece

My mother’s name is Elizabeth Ebere Orieukwu. She is dark in complexion and of average height. She has beautiful, shiny dark eyes and pure white teeth. My mother is the epitome of beauty, an African queen. My precious mum is in her mid-forties.

My mother was a student of Army Day Children’s School, Calabar, Cross River State. She was a very intelligent student in her school days and was made the deputy prefect of the school. My mother is a devoted Christian who loves God with all her heart.

My mother left home at the age of seven. She is a native of Obinagu Eziokwe, Kanu West, Enugu State. She is the sixth child among eight siblings. She is a daughter of a great wrestler who was called Okwute because of his strength. Life was not easy for her family after her father died, which made her leave home at a young age. She lived with different people who maltreated her until she was later taken to her brother, who was a Jehovah’s Witness.

Later, my mother got married to my father in December 2002. Their marriage was blessed with two boys and four girls. In 2008, they returned to the village. Things were very hard, but they managed to survive.

In September 2010, my mother opened a school, which is still running successfully today. My mother is a hardworking, strong, and generous woman who always defends her children.

My mother is a unique star among all. She is the most beautiful, kind, loving, and strong woman on earth. She always listens to her children and tries to give us everything we need. Although she scolds and corrects us when necessary, we still love her dearly.

My mother is the strongest woman I know. She stands by her family through good and bad times, through thick and thin. She is a mighty rock and a true philanthropist.

My mother is an introvert. She knows what is right and always loves to share her knowledge with others. She is my shoulder to cry on, my friend when I need one the most, and my comforter. My mother is the person who gave me life and made me who I am today.

Truly, if my mum is not around, I feel like I’m in a living hell. She is a phenomenal woman, upright and respected in society. My mother moulded and shaped me and my siblings into who we are today. Wherever we go, people always praise her for the way she raised us.

My mother is disciplined and well-groomed. She provides for our physical, emotional, and spiritual needs. When I grow up, I will make sure she gets everything she deserves. I pray that Jehovah God, whom she serves, will keep her alive to enjoy the fruit of her labour.

I am thankful to God for the honour and privilege of being one of the children of the strongest, kindest, most generous, and loving woman on earth. Words cannot express the great love my mother has for her children.

I love you, Mum, and I will continue loving you forever.

Elizabeth Ebere Orieukwu, Precious-Gold’s beloved mother.

Editor’s Note

This story was written as part of a school project where students were asked to write about their mothers. Precious-Gold’s story stood out because of her honest words and the love she poured into her writing. Her description of her mother reminds us of how much mothers sacrifice for their children.

Every mother deserves to be celebrated for her strength and care. Precious-Gold’s story reminds us to love, appreciate, and support our mothers while they are still with us. Let’s all take a moment to say thank you to the women who guide and nurture us daily.

 

13 and Pregnant: Teenage Crisis Rocks Mbaitoli

 

Mbaitoli Local Government Area of Imo State is grappling with a disturbing rise in teenage pregnancies, with girls as young as 13 and 14 forced into motherhood. Virgin Heart Foundation, in collaboration with community stakeholders, warns that if this trend is left unchecked, it could endanger the future of the community’s young girls.

In response, Peace Dike, Executive Director of Virgin Heart Foundation, led her team to Mbaitoli for an intervention with survivors of teenage pregnancy. The session, which began at 10 a.m. at the palace of the late Eze Nwosu Edward Nwokororie, brought together eight teenage girls willing to share their stories — six with babies and two heavily pregnant.

The girls revealed that poor guidance, misinformation, poverty, and lack of support pushed them into early pregnancies. Despite their circumstances, they expressed strong desires to return to school or acquire skills. Five girls indicated their interest in completing secondary school and obtaining their West African Secondary School Certificate (WASSC), while three showed passion for learning trades such as hairdressing and fashion design.

Their stories were heartbreaking:

“I was in JSS 3 when I discovered I was pregnant for a 24-year-old man. He left for Lagos and I dropped out of school to nurse my pregnancy,” said a 13-year-old from Umueze community.

“Life has been difficult for me since I got pregnant and put to bed. I wish to go back to school and continue hairdressing,” shared a 17-year-old from Orodo.

 Another 17-year-old from Oguta said, “I got pregnant for a man who already had three other girls pregnant. Heartbroken, I cut him off and now I want to focus on raising my baby and becoming a nurse.”

During the intervention, Peace Dike encouraged the girls to keep their dreams alive. She sponsored three girls to return to school and supported two others to begin vocational training. She further appealed to well-meaning individuals, government agencies, and organizations to intervene in the lives of these vulnerable girls so they can fulfil their dreams despite the challenges they face.

The testimonies highlight a deepening crisis of teenage pregnancy in Mbaitoli, with cases increasingly reported from schools, markets, and communities. Stakeholders warn that without urgent action including comprehensive sexuality education, access to youth-friendly reproductive health services, and stronger community support the cycle of early motherhood will continue.

Virgin Heart Foundation has mapped out strategies to tackle sexual violence in Mbaitoli  LGA and its environs by creating awareness on sexual reproductive health, life skills and competency domain.  

Yet the courage and determination of these girls prove that with the right support, they can rebuild their lives, complete their education, learn skills, and secure brighter futures for themselves and their children.

 

Rising Teenage Pregnancies in Mbaitoli: A Growing Concern

By Nightengale Ben-Onyeukwu and Peace Dike (Executive Director, Virgin Heart Foundation)

Teenage pregnancy is an increasing challenge across Nigeria, with significant implications for the health, education, and future prospects of young girls. In Mbaitoli Local Government Area of Imo State, which comprises 34 communities, the issue has become particularly visible. Growing numbers of adolescent girls are becoming mothers before they are emotionally, physically, or economically prepared.

Defined as pregnancy occurring among girls aged 13 to 19, teenage pregnancy often results in school dropouts, limited career opportunities, and exposure to health risks. Experts attribute the rising trend to factors such as poverty, inadequate sex education, peer pressure, early marriage, and persistent cultural expectations.

Teenage Pregnancy in Imo State

In Imo State, the consequences are increasingly evident. Many girls who become pregnant are forced to abandon their education, narrowing their prospects for meaningful employment. Teenage mothers frequently face stigma and rejection, while their families struggle under financial and emotional strain. Health experts warn that early pregnancies increase the risk of complications during childbirth, endangering both mother and child.

Mbaitoli, in particular, has recorded a rising number of teenage pregnancies in recent years. While a minority believe that the problem is overstated, most residents and community leaders express deep concern. They link the trend to high school dropout rates, unsafe deliveries, and intergenerational cycles of poverty.

Contributing Factors

Limited access to accurate sexual and reproductive health information leaves many adolescents vulnerable. Although awareness campaigns and workshops have been organized, their coverage and effectiveness remain inconsistent. Many girls lack exposure to comprehensive education on family planning and life skills that could enable them to make informed choices.

Underlying socio-economic conditions also play a central role. Poverty and unemployment increase the likelihood of transactional relationships, where adolescent girls seek financial support from older men. Weak parental guidance and inadequate supervision further heighten vulnerability, while cultural norms in some areas continue to downplay the dangers of early motherhood.

Community Perspectives

Residents and community leaders offer diverse perspectives on the growing trend. Mr. Mathew Ugochukwu, an MTN Sub-dealer, noted that there is a noticeable rise in teenage births in Mbaitoli. He blamed parents for not educating their children about puberty and responsibilities, stating that teenage pregnancy is driving many girls out of school. He suggested that the government should initiate skill acquisition programs for those unable to continue formal education.

Mrs. Nkeiru (Mgbenani) Godwin, Assistant Chief Social Welfare Officer, emphasized that teenage pregnancy is high, driven largely by economic hardship. According to her, young girls make choices that jeopardize their future. She recommended skill acquisition programs and stronger government support, alongside education, and vocational training to reduce early pregnancies and prevent associated health risks such as STDs and HIV.

Mrs. Esther Iwuoha, Home Chairlady of Ofekata Community, observed that many girls fall pregnant because their parents fail to provide adequate care or monitoring. She explained that teenage pregnancy disrupts education and stable futures, urging mothers to guide, support, and build trust with their daughters so they feel safe to share their challenges.

Mrs. Iwuoha Sabina Ego, Women President General of Ofekata Autonomous Community, explained that in her community, girls are encouraged toward education or vocational training, which reduces teenage pregnancies. She identified idleness and lack of moral education as major causes. Families, she said, must provide for their daughters’ needs and guide them with consistent moral instruction. Community youth gatherings also help reinforce positive values.

Ezeala Janefrances, Director of Primary Health Care in Mbaitoli, maintained that although cases exist, teenage pregnancy is not overwhelmingly high due to relatively high literacy levels. However, rural farming areas record more cases. She stressed the need for preventive programs to raise awareness and protect adolescents from the risks.

Asibuka George, popularly known as MC Bush, emphasized the economic angle. He argued that economic hardship is a critical driver, as many girls depend on men for daily needs. Unlike developed countries where government support exists, Nigerian youths receive little assistance. He added that widespread poverty and unstable households contribute significantly to the rise of teenage pregnancy.

Conclusion

Teenage pregnancy in Mbaitoli reflects a wider national challenge. Poverty, inadequate sexual health education, weak parental supervision, and limited economic opportunities create an environment where adolescent girls are highly vulnerable. The consequences extend beyond the individual, placing long-term strain on families, communities, and public health systems.

Addressing this issue requires a multi-sectoral approach. Families must provide care, supervision, and open communication with their children. Schools should strengthen comprehensive sexuality education and keep girls engaged in learning. Communities and religious groups need to foster supportive environments for young people. Government must expand skill acquisition programs, create safe spaces, and provide economic support for vulnerable families.

Every girl deserves the right to education, health, and a future free from the burden of early motherhood. Reducing teenage pregnancy is not only about prevention — it is about safeguarding the rights, dignity, and opportunities of adolescent girls, ensuring they grow into empowered women who can contribute fully to society.

Imo LGAs Unite to Publicly Abandon Female Genital Mutilation

 Virgin Heart Foundation and UNFPA-UNICEF Lead Community Dialogue in Four LGAs, Championing a "FGM Free" Imo by 2030

In a powerful and collaborative stride towards eradicating harmful traditional practices, the Virgin Heart Foundation (VHF), in partnership with UNFPA-UNICEF, successfully held a 1-day interactive dialogue on the Public Declaration of Female Genital Mutilation Abandonment. The series of events, which took place from 2nd September to 6th September, 2025, brought together key community leaders and stakeholders across Oru East, Oru West, Nwangele, and Nkwerre Local Government Areas.

The landmark meetings were hosted at the respective LGA Council Halls and Traditional Rulers' palaces, gathering a wide array of influential figures. Among the attendees were revered traditional rulers, including HRH Eze Anorue of Nkwerre, as well as President Generals, Women and Youth Leaders, religious figures, community facilitators, and a new generation of Adolescent Gender Champions and Male Alliances. The presence of high-ranking officials from the Imo State Ministry of Women Affairs and the National Orientation Agency, along with resource persons from Ebonyi State, underscored the significance of the initiative.

In her opening address, Madam Peace Dike, the Executive Director of VHF, extended heartfelt gratitude to the communities for their strong partnership. She commended their tireless efforts in fighting Female Genital Mutilation, FGM and urged them to remain resilient in their mission. “This collective effort will be instrumental in achieving our shared goal of a completely 'FGM Free' Imo State by 2030,” she stated, rallying the participants to action.

The dialogue featured goodwill messages from HRM Eze Stanley Onyedebelu, a traditional ruler from Ofekata 3 community in Oru East. He expressed deep concern over the perpetuation of harmful traditional practices that affects the girl-child and women, he  pledged his unwavering support for the course. He lauded VHF’s persistent commicrucial sentiment: "The change will start from the grassroots and it is a joint community effort."

Educational sessions were a key component of the dialogue. Mr. Uchenna Unah,  a resource person from Ebonyi State, provided a stark reminder of the devastating health consequences of FGM, including keloid formation, Vesicovaginal Fistula (VVF), and complications during childbirth. His colleague, Ms. Lucy Ogodo shed light on the various forms of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) impacting both women and men, broadening the scope of the discussion.

The event's highlight was a poignant testimony from Chief Obinogwam Solomon of Ubahaeze Orodo, Mbaitoli LGA, a community that has already achieved a Public Declaration of FGM Abandonment (PDA). "Achieving PDA is not a one-person's job," he stressed, “it involves the collaborative efforts of everyone in the community, requiring the input of the traditional ruler, President Generals, and every stakeholder.” Mrs. Onyenakazi, a member of the same community, provided a step-by-step guide on how other communities can replicate their success.

Stakeholders from the four participating LGAs reaffirmed their roles and commitment for the elimination of FGM. The meeting concluded with a drafting of community action plans, and a shared sense of renewed purpose.

In his remark, Mr. Francis Ihem of the National Orientation Agency, Imo State assured participants that the Imo State Government stands in solid support of their efforts, signalling a unified front against FGM.

Young Pupil from Imo State Writes Her First Story, Seeds of Kindness

 By Nightengale Ben-Onyeukwu

Chilaka Divine Chimdumaga

Chilaka Divine Chimdumaga, a young pupil of Divine Glory Rising Mission School in Imo State, is already beginning her journey as a writer. A native of Orsu Local Government Area, she has written her first story titled Seeds of Kindness. In this interview, she talks about her life as a young author, what inspired her, and the message she wants readers to learn from her work.

Can you tell us a little about yourself and what class you're in?
My name is Chilaka Divine Chimdumaga. I am in Basic Four at Divine Glory Rising Mission School. I am the first child in my family. I come from Orsu Local Government Area in Imo State.

What inspired you to write Seeds of Kindness?
I was inspired because I want to become one of the best writers. I also want people to read my book and enjoy it.

When did you start writing stories, and what made you begin?
I started writing stories in 2025. I began because I have a dream to be a famous writer through storytelling.

How did you feel when you finished writing your story?
I felt very happy and proud that I was able to start and finish a story on my own.

Who are your favourite characters in the story?
My favourite characters are Helen, Precious, and Ruth because of the good things they did in the story.

Did anyone help or encourage you while writing the story?
No one helped me directly, but my mother encouraged me a lot and told me to keep writing.

How do you feel being a young author at your age?
I feel very happy and special to be a young author.

What do you enjoy doing when you're not writing stories?
I enjoy singing and reading other people’s stories.

Would you like to become a writer when you grow up? Why or why not?
Yes, I would like to become a writer when I grow up because I want to be known all over the world for my stories.

What message do you want readers to learn from Seeds of Kindness?
I want readers to learn that kindness is good and it pays. God has commanded us to be kind, and when we show kindness, it brings blessings.

Chilaka Divine Chimdumaga is a bright example of young talent in Imo State. Through her debut work, Seeds of Kindness, she not only reveals her creativity but also passes on an important moral lesson to her readers. With her passion for writing and determination to grow, she is set on a path that may one day make her one of Nigeria’s well-known authors.