In a remarkable demonstration of faith-driven service and compassion, Pharm. Mazi Sam Ohuabunwa, chairman of the Board of Trustees of The Roses Ministry and former President of the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria, has urged pharmacists to embrace their professional and moral responsibilities in caring for vulnerable people.
Speaking at the Roses Ministry’s 2025 Annual Widows’ Day programme at Bishop Adelakun Howell’s Memorial (BAHM) Church Event Centre, Surulere, Lagos, Ohuabunwa commended the coordinator, Pharm. Regina Ezenwa, for her unwavering dedication. He described her as a woman of God who has faithfully responded to her calling.
The event welcomed over 3,500 widows, a significant increase from previous years. “This is practical Christianity, showing love, sharing hope, and fulfilling our professional and moral obligations as pharmacists,” Ohuabunwa said. He further praised Pharm. Ezenwa as a vessel in God’s hands, describing the ministry’s work as a true example of service and compassion.
The programme, which began on Wednesday, 26 November with medical screenings, consultations, and pharmaceutical care, continued with the spiritual lunch and gifts distribution on Thursday, 27 November. Beneficiaries received free medical consultations, vital health checks including blood pressure and blood sugar monitoring, and medications. Those with underlying conditions were referred for further care.
Pharm. Ezenwa highlighted the ministry’s holistic approach to empowering widows. “This annual Widows’ Day of Joy is about celebrating and uplifting widows, providing essentials, medical care, and spiritual encouragement regardless of tribe, religion, or background,” she said. She also emphasised the ministry’s commitment to education, supporting over 25 graduates and 12 current undergraduates, with 20 new applications for sponsorship this year.
Mrs Ugochi Opara, coordinator of the Widows Programme, explained, “This year, we made provision for 3,500 widows, up from the 2,500 projected. Many widows are trained in small-scale businesses such as popcorn production and small chops. We also distributed stoves, gas cylinders, popcorn machines, rice, bread, vegetable oil, wrappers, and other essentials.”
Notably, Zenith Bank donated six popcorn machines, gas cookers, and other valuable items, presented by their representatives. One beneficiary, Mrs Juliet Abu, showered prayers and praises on the ministry, promising to make good use of the donations.
Blessing Onyeaboh, a visually challenged widow from Abia State who joined the ministry in 2007, spoke on behalf of the widows, sharing her personal journey of support. “I have been cared for by the Roses Ministry for many years. They even supported my children’s education, and I have received medical care and financial help countless times,” she said. Other beneficiaries shared similar stories of support, including scholarships for their children and assistance to start businesses.
The 2025 event was chaired by Engr (Dr) Femi Bajomo and Dr (Mrs) Mina Bajomo, with the presence of Iyom Josephine Anenih, former Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development.
The ministry continues to rely on the generosity of partners—including pharmaceutical companies, volunteer medical professionals, individual donors, and corporate partners like Zenith Bank—to sustain its programmes. Gifts distributed included Ankara fabrics, rice, vegetable oil, salt, loaves of bread, household items, medicines, and the donated business equipment.
Drawing inspiration from Matthew 25:35-36, the Roses Ministry reiterates its vision of compassion for the hungry, thirsty, sick, and vulnerable, demonstrating practical love through service.
The 2025 Roses Ministry Widows’ Programme successfully empowered over 3,500 widows through medical care, spiritual support, education, and business skills development, setting a model for faith-driven humanitarian service.
