Ezinne (Lady) Catherine Ihuoma Onyeme, the wife of the Delta State Deputy Governor, Sir Monday John Onyeme, is a name synonymous with compassion, grace, and philanthropy.
Born on December 4 1975 into the family of Sir and the late Lady Ishmael Egege, Lady Catherine’s journey is one of extraordinary achievement. Ezinne Onyeme’s quest for knowledge began at Community Primary School III Elekahia in Rivers State, where she laid the foundation for her future achievements.
Her brilliance and dedication propelled her to Army Day Secondary School in Port Harcourt, after which she pursued higher education at the Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT), earning a degree in Quantity Surveying with honours.
Her hunger for academic excellence and personal growth didn’t stop there. She went on to the University of Glasgow in the United Kingdom, obtaining a Master’s degree in Educational Studies. This educational journey not only equipped her with technical skills but also nurtured a broader perspective that fuels her humanitarian endeavours.
Lady Catherine’s professional achievements are as remarkable as her educational background. She began her career in 2002 at the Federal College of Education (Technical), Asaba, where her expertise in Quantity Surveying saw her rise through various ranks, from academic staff to Acting Director of Works. Today, she serves as a Deputy Director, a position that highlights her competence and dedication to service.
As a Chartered Member of the Nigerian Institute of Quantity Surveyors (MNIQS), Lady Onyeme exemplifies professionalism and integrity.
Her impact extends far beyond her career. Through Lions Club International, the world’s largest service organisation, she has spearheaded countless projects aimed at uplifting the underprivileged. As the Charter President of the Asaba Jextoban Lions Club, her work has touched countless lives in Delta State and beyond.
“Philanthropy is a calling,” Lady Catherine shared in an interview with The Pointer. “In giving, we find true fulfilment.”
Lady Catherine’s advocacy for societal progress begins at the family unit. Speaking at the recent Winning Women International Annual Event in Asaba, she emphasised the indispensable role of women in nurturing unity and stability within families.
“Today, many young boys are pursuing quick money through dubious means like internet fraud, popularly known as ‘yahoo-yahoo,’” she lamented. “Some girls engage in questionable activities instead of pursuing meaningful work. Marriages, too, are often treated casually, with little regard for the sanctity of the institution. These issues often stem from families failing to provide a strong moral foundation.”
Urging women to embrace their roles as builders of homes and communities, she added, “By strengthening family units, we can drive meaningful progress at both state and national levels.”
Lady Onyeme’s passion for uplifting young girls was evident during the maiden edition of the Defiant Ladies U17 Football Tournament in Asaba. She saw the event not just as a sporting competition but as a platform for building strength, teamwork, and confidence among girls.
“Whether you lifted the trophy or not, each of you is a winner,” she told the athletes. “By stepping onto that field, you have broken barriers, made new friends, and proven that girls have a vital role to play in the world of sports.”
She further called for collective action to address challenges such as teen pregnancy, child marriage, and gender-based violence. “Let us promise to continue supporting these young girls, to stand beside them as they pursue their goals, and to ensure that every girl in Delta State and across Nigeria has the chance to rise, thrive, and succeed,” she urged.
The founder of the tournament and Chairman of the Nigerian Women Football League (NWFL) Club Owners Association, Henrietta Ehiabor, described Lady Onyeme as a visionary supporter: “She understood our vision even though it is still in its budding stage and encouraged us in words and action. Her belief in our cause is what made this tournament a success.”
Lady Catherine’s 49th birthday on December 4 2024 was marked not with grandeur but with acts of kindness. At the Federal Medical Centre (FMC) and the Asaba Specialist Hospital, she offered care packages, prayers, and financial aid to patients, including babies born on her birthdate and children in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU).
Onyeme told The Pointer, “Last year, I spent my birthday at an orphanage. This year, I chose to celebrate with babies born on my birthday and patients. Giving back is the essence of life,” she said, urging others to extend a helping hand to those in need.
Her actions were met with heartfelt gratitude. Chief Medical Director of the Asaba Specialist Hospital, Dr Peace Ighosewe, described her visit as “inspiring and impactful,” while the Head of Clinical Services and Training at FMC, Dr Omo Ekene, highlighted her dedication to the welfare of Deltans. Beneficiaries like a NICU mother, Mrs. Rita Uzoma, and a recovering patient, Mr. Patrick Isichei, expressed profound appreciation, offering prayers for her family and continued success.
Lady Catherine’s brush with mortality during a surgical procedure only deepened her resolve to serve others. Reflecting on this experience, she said, “I went for a surgery, which I believe a lot of people went through and did not make it out of the theatre, but I went through it, and God saw me through. During the process, I promised God that if He saved me, I would be dedicated to reaching out to those at the grassroots with free medical treatment.”
True to her word, she organised a free medical outreach at Ibabu, Onicha-Ukwuani, providing services to over 700 individuals in August 2023.
“Our team of doctors tested for malaria, high blood pressure, ulcers, diabetes, general eye care, and more,” she explained. “God gave me the privilege and resources to undergo surgery, but seeing these people who might not have such means, I feel blessed to help.”
Lady Onyeme’s initiatives go beyond momentary acts of kindness; they are deliberate steps toward creating lasting change. Representing the state First Lady and founder of the You Matter Charity Foundation, Dcns Tobore Oborevwori, during the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence organised by the Ministry of Women Affairs, Lady Onyeme emphasised the importance of eradicating gender-based violence, empowering survivors, and advancing gender equality.
“Despite progress, many women still live in fear or face societal stigmatisation. We need stronger laws, community engagement, and survivor support systems to amplify these voices,” she said.
Lady Onyeme’s optimism and resilience are as inspiring as her achievements. She believes her journey is just beginning. “This is not the last medical outreach,” she said during her outreach in Ibabu, Onicha-Ukwuani, one she replicated during her birthday this year. “From the joy on the beneficiaries’ faces to the overwhelming support I’ve received, I’m more determined to continue serving. There’s so much to do, and we will do it.”
Ezinne (Lady) Onyeme embodies grace, strength, and purpose. As a professional, philanthropist, wife, and mother, she is a role model for all. Her words and actions resonate deeply: “In giving, we find true fulfilment.”
Lady Onyeme’s journey continues to inspire, reminding all that one person’s dedication can indeed change lives. With faith, a compassionate heart, and a vision for a better society, she has become a light in the lives of many.
Through her voice, actions, and the voices of those she has touched, it is clear: Ezinne Catherine Onyeme is not just a woman of the week; she is a woman for all seasons.
Ezinne (Lady) Catherine Ihuoma Onyeme, the wife of the Delta State Deputy Governor, Sir Monday John Onyeme, is a name synonymous with compassion, grace, and philanthropy.
Born on December 4 1975 into the family of Sir and the late Lady Ishmael Egege, Lady Catherine’s journey is one of extraordinary achievement. Ezinne Onyeme’s quest for knowledge began at Community Primary School III Elekahia in Rivers State, where she laid the foundation for her future achievements.
Her brilliance and dedication propelled her to Army Day Secondary School in Port Harcourt, after which she pursued higher education at the Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT), earning a degree in Quantity Surveying with honours.
Her hunger for academic excellence and personal growth didn’t stop there. She went on to the University of Glasgow in the United Kingdom, obtaining a Master’s degree in Educational Studies. This educational journey not only equipped her with technical skills but also nurtured a broader perspective that fuels her humanitarian endeavours.
Lady Catherine’s professional achievements are as remarkable as her educational background. She began her career in 2002 at the Federal College of Education (Technical), Asaba, where her expertise in Quantity Surveying saw her rise through various ranks, from academic staff to Acting Director of Works. Today, she serves as a Deputy Director, a position that highlights her competence and dedication to service.
As a Chartered Member of the Nigerian Institute of Quantity Surveyors (MNIQS), Lady Onyeme exemplifies professionalism and integrity.
Her impact extends far beyond her career. Through Lions Club International, the world’s largest service organisation, she has spearheaded countless projects aimed at uplifting the underprivileged. As the Charter President of the Asaba Jextoban Lions Club, her work has touched countless lives in Delta State and beyond.
“Philanthropy is a calling,” Lady Catherine shared in an interview with The Pointer. “In giving, we find true fulfilment.”
Lady Catherine’s advocacy for societal progress begins at the family unit. Speaking at the recent Winning Women International Annual Event in Asaba, she emphasised the indispensable role of women in nurturing unity and stability within families.
“Today, many young boys are pursuing quick money through dubious means like internet fraud, popularly known as ‘yahoo-yahoo,’” she lamented. “Some girls engage in questionable activities instead of pursuing meaningful work. Marriages, too, are often treated casually, with little regard for the sanctity of the institution. These issues often stem from families failing to provide a strong moral foundation.”
Urging women to embrace their roles as builders of homes and communities, she added, “By strengthening family units, we can drive meaningful progress at both state and national levels.”
Lady Onyeme’s passion for uplifting young girls was evident during the maiden edition of the Defiant Ladies U17 Football Tournament in Asaba. She saw the event not just as a sporting competition but as a platform for building strength, teamwork, and confidence among girls.
“Whether you lifted the trophy or not, each of you is a winner,” she told the athletes. “By stepping onto that field, you have broken barriers, made new friends, and proven that girls have a vital role to play in the world of sports.”
She further called for collective action to address challenges such as teen pregnancy, child marriage, and gender-based violence. “Let us promise to continue supporting these young girls, to stand beside them as they pursue their goals, and to ensure that every girl in Delta State and across Nigeria has the chance to rise, thrive, and succeed,” she urged.
The founder of the tournament and Chairman of the Nigerian Women Football League (NWFL) Club Owners Association, Henrietta Ehiabor, described Lady Onyeme as a visionary supporter: “She understood our vision even though it is still in its budding stage and encouraged us in words and action. Her belief in our cause is what made this tournament a success.”
Lady Catherine’s 49th birthday on December 4 2024 was marked not with grandeur but with acts of kindness. At the Federal Medical Centre (FMC) and the Asaba Specialist Hospital, she offered care packages, prayers, and financial aid to patients, including babies born on her birthdate and children in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU).
Onyeme told The Pointer, “Last year, I spent my birthday at an orphanage. This year, I chose to celebrate with babies born on my birthday and patients. Giving back is the essence of life,” she said, urging others to extend a helping hand to those in need.
Her actions were met with heartfelt gratitude. Chief Medical Director of the Asaba Specialist Hospital, Dr Peace Ighosewe, described her visit as “inspiring and impactful,” while the Head of Clinical Services and Training at FMC, Dr Omo Ekene, highlighted her dedication to the welfare of Deltans. Beneficiaries like a NICU mother, Mrs. Rita Uzoma, and a recovering patient, Mr. Patrick Isichei, expressed profound appreciation, offering prayers for her family and continued success.
Lady Catherine’s brush with mortality during a surgical procedure only deepened her resolve to serve others. Reflecting on this experience, she said, “I went for a surgery, which I believe a lot of people went through and did not make it out of the theatre, but I went through it, and God saw me through. During the process, I promised God that if He saved me, I would be dedicated to reaching out to those at the grassroots with free medical treatment.”
True to her word, she organised a free medical outreach at Ibabu, Onicha-Ukwuani, providing services to over 700 individuals in August 2023.
“Our team of doctors tested for malaria, high blood pressure, ulcers, diabetes, general eye care, and more,” she explained. “God gave me the privilege and resources to undergo surgery, but seeing these people who might not have such means, I feel blessed to help.”
Lady Onyeme’s initiatives go beyond momentary acts of kindness; they are deliberate steps toward creating lasting change. Representing the state First Lady and founder of the You Matter Charity Foundation, Dcns Tobore Oborevwori, during the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence organised by the Ministry of Women Affairs, Lady Onyeme emphasised the importance of eradicating gender-based violence, empowering survivors, and advancing gender equality.
“Despite progress, many women still live in fear or face societal stigmatisation. We need stronger laws, community engagement, and survivor support systems to amplify these voices,” she said.
Lady Onyeme’s optimism and resilience are as inspiring as her achievements. She believes her journey is just beginning. “This is not the last medical outreach,” she said during her outreach in Ibabu, Onicha-Ukwuani, one she replicated during her birthday this year. “From the joy on the beneficiaries’ faces to the overwhelming support I’ve received, I’m more determined to continue serving. There’s so much to do, and we will do it.”
Ezinne (Lady) Onyeme embodies grace, strength, and purpose. As a professional, philanthropist, wife, and mother, she is a role model for all. Her words and actions resonate deeply: “In giving, we find true fulfilment.”
Lady Onyeme’s journey continues to inspire, reminding all that one person’s dedication can indeed change lives. With faith, a compassionate heart, and a vision for a better society, she has become a light in the lives of many.
Through her voice, actions, and the voices of those she has touched, it is clear: Ezinne Catherine Onyeme is not just a woman of the week; she is a woman for all seasons.
