The First Lady of Imo State, Chioma, tells NAOMI CHIMA about her childhood, her relationship with her husband, Governor Hope Uzodimma, and other issues.....CLICK HERE TO CONTINUE READING>>>.....CLICK HERE TO CONTINUE READING>>>
Tell us about your background.
I was born in Aba, into the Ikeaka family of Dikenafai in the Ideato South Local Government Area of Imo State.
I had my elementary and secondary education at the International Early Learning Centre, and Dority International Secondary School respectively. Both were in Aba, which is now part of Abia State.
I went on to attend Imo State University, where I earned a Bachelor of Law degree with honours, before continuing my studies at the Nigerian Law School.
My professional journey began under the mentorship of respected legal experts; first at Chris Uche (SAN) and Co; and later at Rickey Tarfa and Co. I further developed my legal skills at one of Nigeria’s leading law firms, Etiaba Chambers and Co, which is led by Emeka Etiaba (SAN). I am also a devout Catholic and a dedicated mother of four.
In what ways did your background influence your values?
I come from a family that prioritised education, integrity and service to humanity. From an early age, my parents taught me the value of these principles and they lived by them every day. My parents were strong proponents of hard work, always encouraging me to put in the effort and stay dedicated to my goals. They also believed in leveraging privilege to uplift others. They taught us that if we had any advantages, we should use them to help those who were less fortunate. My father used to say that education was a critical tool for empowerment, and he always reminded me that learning not only helps us grow but also allows us to make a real difference in the world. At the same time, my mother modelled compassion through her daily actions, showing kindness and understanding to everyone she met. She taught me that showing empathy and caring for others is just as important as achieving personal success.
These lessons passed down from both my parents, instilled in me a lifelong commitment to service. They shaped my values and gave me the determination to address societal challenges in meaningful ways. I learnt that it is not enough to just focus on one’s success, we have a responsibility to make the world a better place. This foundation of integrity, along with a strong sense of responsibility to others, has become a cornerstone of my public service efforts. It continues to guide my decisions and actions as I work to create positive change in my community and beyond.
What were your favourite childhood memories, and how did they mould your future aspirations?
My childhood was enriched by a loving family and a supportive community that instilled in me the values of compassion, diligence and resilience. As the only daughter, one of my most treasured memories was the time I spent with my mother in the kitchen, where she imparted wisdom and life lessons as we prepared meals. Those moments were invaluable, teaching me the importance of care and empathy. I also hold fond memories of growing and learning alongside my siblings, fostering a sense of teamwork and mutual support. These early experiences cultivated my deep belief in the strength of family and community, which continues to shape my aspirations and drive my work today.
What were some of your favourite activities growing up?
As a child, I engaged in activities that combined intellectual development and community service. I actively participated in community outreach programmes organised through our local church and school, which ignited my passion for helping others. I also had a deep love for reading, which broadened my perspective and introduced me to diverse cultures and ideas. My involvement in debate clubs, the press club, and student leadership roles at Dority International Secondary School honed my critical thinking, advocacy and leadership skills. Those formative activities played a pivotal role in shaping my capacity for service and public engagement.
What inspired you to establish the GoodHope Flourish Foundation, and what impact do you hope it will have?
The GoodHope Flourish Foundation was inspired by a desire to foster kindness and create meaningful change in society. I believe kindness has a transformative ripple effect. When one person acts with compassion, it inspires others to do the same.
GHFF was established as a platform to drive this vision and address critical societal needs, particularly among disadvantaged groups. The foundation’s mission centres on improving the quality of life through education, healthcare and economic empowerment while addressing issues such as gender-based violence, maternal and infant mortality, and unemployment. We focus on vulnerable populations, including women, children, individuals with special needs, and persons living with disabilities. Since its inception, GHFF has supported over 5,000 individuals and launched more than 500 impactful campaigns. My travels across Imo State revealed both significant challenges and untapped potential, reinforcing the need for targeted interventions. By offering educational support, skills training, and empowerment programmes, GHFF aims to create sustainable, long-term solutions that enable women and children to thrive.
How do you think your legal background prepared you for your role as First Lady?
My legal background has been instrumental in shaping my role as First Lady of Imo State. It has equipped me with analytical thinking, problem-solving skills, and a strategic approach to addressing systemic challenges. These skills have been invaluable in designing and implementing targeted programmes that tackle issues such as access to education, healthcare and economic opportunities for women and children. As a legal professional, I developed a profound understanding of human needs and concerns, learning to approach problems with fairness and compassion. My knowledge of legal frameworks has enabled me to effectively advocate for policies that protect and empower vulnerable populations. Additionally, my legal training has reinforced the importance of justice, equity and accountability; principles that guide my work in public service. This foundation has empowered me to create meaningful and sustainable change while addressing the most pressing needs of my community.
How do you measure the success of your initiatives and programmes as First Lady?
I have developed our evaluation framework to integrate both quantitative and qualitative indicators, giving us a comprehensive understanding of our impact. On the one hand, we measure metrics such as the number of beneficiaries and the resources distributed, which provide us with concrete data. On the other hand, I place a strong emphasis on the long-term socio-economic effects, particularly on women and families. For me, success isn’t just about numbers; it is about the real, tangible changes we see. These changes include women starting sustainable businesses, girls completing their education, and communities achieving lasting economic stability.
Among all our initiatives, I am particularly passionate about improving healthcare access for women and implementing economic empowerment programmes. These efforts resonate deeply with me because they directly uplift individuals, transforming them into powerful agents of change within their families and communities. I believe that when women have access to better healthcare and economic opportunities, they not only improve their own lives but also contribute to the greater well-being and development of their communities, transforming them into agents of change.
Can you share more about your experience working as the secretary of the Renewed Hope initiative?
Serving as the secretary of the Renewed Hope Initiative, while also fulfilling my role as First Lady of Imo State, has provided me with a unique platform to tackle critical issues in a comprehensive and integrated way. Working under the guidance of Senator Oluremi Tinubu (Nigeria’s First Lady), the initiative focuses on key areas such as education, health, economic empowerment, agriculture and social investment—areas that align perfectly with Imo State’s priorities. This alignment allows us to seamlessly integrate federal programmes into local implementation, ensuring that our efforts are both strategic and impactful.
Through my dual role, I have gained invaluable insights into grassroots engagement and the importance of intergovernmental collaboration. These experiences have significantly enhanced my ability to design and implement programmes that not only address the unique challenges facing our communities but also contribute to Nigeria’s broader development goals. I have seen firsthand how working together at all levels of government and with local communities leads to sustainable and meaningful change.
How has your family supported you throughout your career?
My family has been a pillar of strength, offering unwavering support and understanding throughout my journey in public service. My husband’s encouragement and partnership have been vital in managing the demands of leadership and family life.
What values do you hope to pass on to your children?
To my children, I emphasise values such as integrity, empathy and a commitment to service. I aim to instill the principle that true success is measured by the positive impact one makes in the lives of others.
How do you unwind after a long day?
Unwinding for me is a reflective activity. I usually engage in reading mostly and also spending time with family. I also go for short walks within my residence to allow me clear my mind and recalibrate. Occasionally, I prepare a simple meal, which is both therapeutic and reminiscent of cherished moments from my childhood. These routines provide balance and restore energy, ensuring I remain focused and effective in my responsibilities.
How do you balance work and family life?
Balance requires deliberate prioritisation and the support of a structured schedule. My husband’s understanding and shared commitment to both family and public service have been invaluable in helping me balance my roles.
What is your secret to a happy marriage?
The foundation of our happy marriage lies in open communication, mutual respect and shared values. We actively support each other’s aspirations and nurture a partnership that strengthens both our family and our roles.
Did you envision being a First Lady while growing up?
No! Becoming a First Lady was never an explicit aspiration; my focus has always been on making meaningful contributions to society. When I first met my husband, I was drawn to his visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to public service. His role as governor has provided a broader platform for us to work collectively toward societal transformation, a responsibility I approach with humility and determination.
What’s your favourite dish?
Egusi soup remains my favourite dish.
Do you still cook for the governor and do you have a secret recipe?
Yes! And, I will continue to cook for my family, including my husband, as it fosters intimacy and connection. My culinary philosophy centres on the use of fresh, local ingredients and cooking with care and attention to detail.
How do you prioritise self-care and wellness?
I believe that self-care is essential for maintaining my effectiveness as a leader, and I actively prioritise practices that support my well-being. I make time for regular exercise and mindfulness activities because they help me stay focused, energised and grounded, allowing me to lead with clarity and purpose.
What is your go-to book or podcast for inspiration and learning?
For inspiration, I often turn to books such as Becoming by Michelle Obama. Her reflections on balancing public service with personal authenticity resonate deeply with me, offering valuable lessons on navigating challenges while staying true to myself. In addition, I regularly listen to podcasts on leadership and governance, as they provide me with fresh perspectives and continuous learning opportunities. These resources fuel my growth and help me refine my approach to both leadership and life.
What are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced in promoting women’s empowerment and gender equality in Imo State?
Promoting women’s empowerment and gender equality in Imo State has been a journey of confronting deeply rooted cultural norms and economic disparities. I have worked hard to address the significant challenge of transforming traditional mindsets that limit women’s participation in decision-making processes and leadership roles. These entrenched views often restrict women from realising their full potential. I’ve also encountered the difficulty of limited access to financial resources and educational opportunities, which continue to hinder women’s advancement in the region.
To tackle these challenges, I have been involved in implementing targeted initiatives, such as skills acquisition programmes, financial grants and mentorship opportunities. These efforts are designed to equip women with the tools and support they need to thrive. Additionally, I’ve seen the importance of collaborating with traditional rulers and community leaders, who have played a crucial role in fostering community-driven, sustainable change. Through this collaborative approach, we’ve been able to make strides toward creating a more equitable environment for women in Imo State.
As the founder of Goodhope Flourish Foundation what leadership style do you employ?
I lead with a collaborative and transformational style, encouraging ownership and innovation within my team while maintaining a clear, shared vision. I firmly believe in empowering my team members to take the initiative and contribute their ideas, which fosters a sense of ownership and drive. At the same time, I embrace servant leadership, prioritising the removal of obstacles that may hinder my team’s success. Also, I am always leading by example. By putting the needs of my team first and supporting their growth, I build their capacity, ensuring that the impact we create is both meaningful and sustainable in the long term.
Looking at the current economic situation, how is your foundation contributing to alleviating hardship and poverty?
I have been deeply involved in our foundation’s efforts to address the economic challenges faced by many, particularly women in rural areas. We have intensified our initiatives, focusing on skills acquisition programmes, providing financial assistance through grants, and offering agricultural support to empower women and help them build sustainable livelihoods. I am proud of how we have expanded our reach by establishing partnerships with both the government and private sector organisations. These collaborations have allowed us to leverage their resources, expertise and networks, enabling us to scale up our programmes and make a more significant impact in the communities we serve. Through these collective efforts, I am confident that we can continue to uplift and support women in ways that foster long-term economic independence and growth.
What are some of the challenges you face as the First Lady and how do you overcome them?
I face several key challenges in my role, including balancing multiple responsibilities, managing public expectations, and staying true to my authentic self while constantly being in the public eye. These challenges can be demanding, but I’ve learnt to overcome them through a few key strategies.
First, I rely on careful time management to ensure I stay organised and focused on my priorities. I also make a conscious effort to focus on our mission and the impact we’re making, rather than getting caught up in public perception or external pressures.
Maintaining strong support systems is another vital part of how I navigate these challenges. I surround myself with a team of trusted individuals who offer guidance, encouragement and feedback. Regular communication with the beneficiaries of our programmes also plays a critical role in keeping me grounded. Hearing firsthand from the people we are helping reminds me of why we do this work and motivates me to keep pushing forward, no matter the obstacles. These strategies help me stay focused and resilient, even during difficult times.
What are your hobbies, and how do you create time for them?
Reading is my enduring passion, providing both relaxation and knowledge. I make time for it by utilising breaks between engagements to read e-books or articles. Despite my demanding schedule, I prioritise this interest as it enhances my perspective and fuels my ability to serve effectively.
What advice do you give to young girls and women who want to succeed in their careers and make a difference in their communities, despite challenges?
I will always encourage girls and women out there to work hard and stay prayerful because I truly believe that is the key to success. There are no shortcuts in life—it’s all about putting in the effort, staying committed and trusting the process. I would like to also remind them to believe in themselves, dream big and give their best efforts in everything they do, no matter how challenging it may seem. I know that the biggest obstacles often come from within like self-doubt and hesitation to take action. So, I encourage them to trust in God, pray with faith, and know that He will guide them through every challenge. I firmly believe that when we stay dedicated and trust in His plan, He will fulfill our desires and lead us to success.
What is your advice to the people of Imo State and Nigeria in these challenging times?
I urge everyone to join hands in working together to promote peace, not just in Imo State, but across Nigeria as a whole. Peace requires the efforts of everyone because it serves as the foundation for all development. When peace prevails, progress naturally follows, and we all benefit from it. I also want to take this opportunity to reassure the people of Imo State that the governor and his administration are fully committed to driving remarkable developmental strides that will positively impact everyone. Together, we can make Imo State a place of greater opportunities and prosperity. Let us continue to support these efforts and work in unity for the growth and betterment of our state and nation. The future is in our hands, and by fostering peace, we can build a brighter and stronger tomorrow…READ FULL ARTICLE [HERE]>>