Nneoma Nkechi Rochas Okorocha, a distinguished leader and philanthropist, exemplifies compassion and dedication to uplifting the underserved communities in Nigeria. Born into the family of Chief Bernard Nnadi Nwosu and Mrs. Theresa Nnuola Nwosu in Abia State, Nkechi’s journey from her childhood in Plateau State to her influential role in Imo State reflects her relentless commitment to community service, education, and women’s empowerment.

Early Life and Education

Growing up in Jos, Plateau State, Nkechi showcased a natural intelligence and diligence that set her apart. She completed her primary and secondary education at St. Theresa’s Girls’ Primary School and St. John’s College in Jos. Moving to Owerri, she attended Malvin School of Catering and Hotel Management, where she earned a diploma. Her educational journey continued back in Plateau State at the University of Jos, where she obtained a B.Sc. Honours degree in Accounting and later, a Master’s degree in International Law and Diplomacy. An ardent scholar, Nkechi is presently pursuing her Ph.D. at Imo State University, Owerri.

Family and Philanthropic Foundations

Nkechi is married to Owelle Anayo Rochas Okorocha, former Governor of Imo State, and their union has been blessed with six biological children, four grandchildren, and over 10,000 adopted children from across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones. Together with her husband, she co-founded the Rochas Foundation Incorporated, a network of charitable schools established to provide free education for underprivileged children. These schools are located in strategic cities like Jos, Kano, Ibadan, Owerri, and Ogboko.

Professional Achievements and Literary Contributions

Beyond her philanthropic pursuits, Nkechi has established herself in business and literature. She is the CEO of Lamonde Homes and Lamonde Hotels Group and a prominent member of the Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA) and the Nigerian Guild of Editors. As a published author, Nkechi has used her literary voice to inspire and empower women. Her publications include:

• Woman; The Home Builder
• Woman; The Intercessor
• My Child
• Dignity of Womanhood
• The Power of Image
• Nneoma Magazine Series
• SNARP Magazine Series
• Woman; Vessels for Transformation

Through her writings, Nkechi offers insights into the roles of women as builders, nurturers, and advocates of family values.

Establishing the Women of Divine Destiny Initiative (WODDI)

Driven by her deep compassion for the underprivileged, Nkechi founded the Women of Divine Destiny Initiative (WODDI), a foundation aimed at improving the welfare of women and children across Nigeria. Through WODDI, she has launched numerous impactful projects, including:

• She Needs a Roof Project (SNARP): To provide housing for widows and orphans, SNARP has constructed and furnished over 170 two-bedroom homes, handed over free of cost to beneficiaries.
• Skills Acquisition Centers: Located in each senatorial zone of Imo State, these centers provide training in vocational skills, empowering citizens to become self-reliant.
• Nneoma Kitchen Initiative: A mobile kitchen that reaches out to prisons, orphanages, and other underserved communities to provide meals.
• Girl Child Education Summit: Dedicated to promoting education for young girls, helping them overcome barriers to educational success.
• Nneoma Women Empowerment Programs: Providing resources like sewing machines and hair dryers to empower women economically.

These initiatives are designed not only to address immediate needs but also to promote long-term self-sufficiency among women and youths in Nigeria.

Faith and Leadership: Monthly Prayer Meetings and Community Engagement

Faith is at the core of Nkechi’s life and work. As a woman of deep spiritual conviction, she organizes monthly prayer meetings through WODDI to foster spiritual growth and strengthen family values among Imo families. Nkechi’s belief that “God is everything” informs her approach to life and underpins her leadership initiatives. Every project she undertakes is rooted in her faith, with a view toward fulfilling a divine purpose.

Awards and Recognition

Nkechi’s contributions have earned her numerous accolades at both national and international levels, underscoring her commitment to service and leadership:

• International Inner Wheel Award of Excellence (2009)
• Virtuous Mother of St. Mulumba’s Catholic Parish, Owerri (2011)
• Matron of the International Prison Chaplaincy Association of Nigeria (2012)
• Award of Excellence as the Light of Women in Nigeria by WOWICAN (2013)
• Award of Most Valuable First Lady, South East Zone (2014)
• Outstanding Fellowship Award by Hospitality and Tourism Management Association of Nigeria (HATMAN) (2016)
• Ambassador of Hope Award by the Association of Nigerian Academic Doctors (ANWAD)

These awards reflect the high regard in which she is held by her community and the wider society, recognizing her work in improving lives and inspiring hope.

Legacy and Future Vision

Nneoma Nkechi Rochas Okorocha’s legacy is defined by her unwavering dedication to the welfare of women, children, and the disadvantaged. Through her extensive charitable projects, businesses, and advocacy, she has not only built a platform for herself but has given countless Nigerians the tools and support needed to build better lives. Her future vision encompasses expanding her educational and empowerment initiatives and continuing to serve as a beacon of hope and transformation across Nigeria.