United States-based Barrister Helen Ifeoma Mbakwe has been nominated, along eight other women for the AMTY Awards, Anambra Man of the Year Awards, slated for Friday, December 29, 2023 at the  Stanel Dome in Awka, Anambra State, Nigeria. 

The nine women nominated for the 3rd edition of the Prestigious AMTY Awards include Barrister Helen Ifeoma Mbakwe, Prof. Francisca Nneka Okeke, Barrister Amaka Ezeno, Chief Mrs. Chinelo Mofus Chidebelu, Prof. Philomena Kanwulia Igbokwe, Mrs. Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe, Jennifer Eliogu, Sister Maria Chijioke Nwankwo, and Prof. Ifeoma Egbuonu. 

“These women are exemplary in their careers, families, and society at large. They serve as role models of what women should aspire to be – brave, skilled, and accomplished. Their achievements reflect the true spirit of Anambra. It’s important to note that there is no order of importance in the list,” according to Anambra People magazine. 

“It’s uplifting to be acknowledged by your people. It makes you want to do more. It means that the little things one does, reaches even further than one expected. Yes, it does feel good to be counted ,” said Princess Helen Mbakwe 

“Wherever one is based it’s more important to be based on the hearts of people, people should feel my presence , I strive to make a difference wherever I’m at home. 

According to her, “The Anambra people are a great people. People with intellect and compassion. I am glad I’m one of them. I am glad that we are at home and everywhere.”

The nominees:

Prof. Francisca Nneka Okeke is a distinguished scientist with an impressive academic background. She has a B.Sc. in Physics, M.Ed, and M.Sc. in Applied Earth Geophysics, as well as a Ph.D. in ionospheric geophysics and a Postgraduate Diploma in Education. Prof. Okeke has made remarkable contributions to the field of physics, with 143 research papers published, and the discovery of a new technique using solar quiet day current variations. She has supervised numerous PhD and MSc students and has earned prestigious awards such as the L’Oreal-UNESCO Award for women in Science for the Physical sciences. She is a Fellow of The World Academy of Science, African Academy of Science, Nigerian Academy of Science, Japanese Society for Promotion of Science, Nigeria Institute of Physics, and Astronomical Society of Nigeria.

Amaka Ezeno is a lawyer with an extensive 24-year career in private legal practice. She is the founder of “The Law Zoomers” and is recognized for her achievements in the legal field. Ezeno is a graduate of the University of Nigeria and the Nigerian Law School. She is the only female lawyer to hold the position of Chairman of a Branch of the Nigerian Bar Association in Anambra State. Her Chambers, The LAW ZOOMERS, has produced over 35 alumni (Pupils) who are currently making waves in the profession. Her practice in Awka has 13 lawyers, three of whom are partners.

Chief Mrs. Chinelo Mofus Chidebelu has been pivotal in politics and women empowerment in Anambra. She played a significant role in the growth of APGA in Anambra before joining PDP. Chidebelu founded the Women Empowerment Group called “Beloved Sisters Association” and was appointed as a member of the PDP Board of Trustees and the PDP Vice Presidential Screening Committee in 2022. Chidebelu served as the former General Manager/Acting CEO of Hardis and Dromedas. She has earned the title of ‘Anyafulugo 1’ in the Igwe Nando Ruling Council.

Prof. Philomena Kanwulia Igbokwe is a renowned figure in the field of Chemical Engineering. She has held various positions throughout her career, including Assistant Lecturer at ASUTECH and Senior Lecturer at Nnamdi Azikiwe University. Igbokwe holds the distinction of being the first Female Professor of Chemical Engineering in Nigeria. She has published multiple books and articles in learned academic journals and has served as an External Examiner at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels at several universities.

Mrs. Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe is a prominent figure in the banking industry. She has been the Managing Director/CEO of Fidelity Bank since 2021 and previously served as the Executive Director for Lagos and South West. Onyeali-Ikpe holds a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) and Master of Laws (LLM) degrees from the University of Nigeria. Her accomplishments have earned her the honorary senior membership of The Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN).

Barr Helen Ifeoma Mbakwe is a lawyer with extensive experience in the legal field. She holds a Master’s Degree in International Law from the University of Lagos and has been practicing law for 29 years. Mbakwe is also an entrepreneur and philanthropist, actively involved in various organizations and initiatives. She is the President of Keera Autism Foundation (KAF) and the President of The 3Fs (Foundation for Family) Empowerment and Development. She was the Senatorial candidate of NNPP in the last general elections.

Jennifer Eliogu is a Nigerian actress and singer who has made a notable impact in the entertainment industry. She has been honored with a Special Recognition Award at the City People Entertainment Awards and an Award for Excellence at the African Women Leadership Conference for her role in empowering women.

Sister Maria Chijioke Nwankwo, a nun in the Congregation of the Immaculate Heart of Mary Mother of Christ, has devoted her life to educating and developing young people. She has held significant positions in various schools, including her current role as the Manager of Queen of the Rosary College (QRC) Onitsha. Under her leadership, QRC has achieved remarkable success, winning awards in entrepreneurship, poetry, quizzes, and science competitions. Sister Maria Chijioke Nwankwo’s impact can be seen in the school’s infrastructure and focus on quality education and character development.

Prof. Ifeoma Egbuonu is a highly accomplished and respected medical professional, specializing in pediatrics. She was born to a prominent family in Oraifite, Ekwusigo LGA. She attended prestigious institutions such as Queen’s School, Enugu, and the University of Ibadan. She has served in leadership positions in various medical associations and organizations, both in Nigeria and internationally. She served as the first female president, West African College of Physicians in Liberia and was able to build the state of the art college building in Abuja. She was among the foundational fellows of Nigerian Academy of Medicine.

“These women represent the epitome of excellence and achievement in Anambra and serve as inspirations to many. The AMTY Awards are a great opportunity to celebrate their accomplishments and contributions” said AMTY organizers.

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