Wife of Ebonyi State Governor, Mrs. Mary-Maudline Nwifuru has emerged as the “2025 Ebonyi Philanthropist Of The Year”.

Mrs Nwifuru polled 25,465 votes to defeat three other nominees, Arch. Chief Christian Asaga Nwali, CSP Nkiruka Nwode, (Ruka Ruka), Engr Darlington Ugota and Chief Ojimba Chikaodili Ojimba.

Mrs Nwifuru through her BERWO Foundation (Better Health for Rural Women, Children and Internally Displaced Persons) which is a non-profit initiative has touched many lives in Ebonyi State.

Through the foundation, she has enrolled thousands of pregnant women into health schemes and equally promoting better health for women and children.

She has equally built many houses for widows and gave thousands of scholarships to indigent Ebonyians.

In the month of October 2025, Mrs launched the second phase of enrolling 10,000pregnant women into the Ebonyi State health insurance scheme, noting that the initiative aims to reduce the mortality rate among pregnant women.

She noted that, apart from targeting 10,000 pregnant women across the 177 wards that make up the state, we are also encouraging antenatal attendance, safe delivery practices, nutrition awareness, breastfeeding, and emotional support for our mothers-to-be.She said, “It is with a heart full of joy and deep gratitude to God that I welcome you all to this very special occasion, the official flag-off of phase 2 of the enrollment of 10,000 pregnant women into the Ebonyi State health insurance scheme.“As First Lady, and as a mother, I understand the joys and the challenges of pregnancy and motherhood, and I also understand that while motherhood should bring hope and happiness, for many women, especially in rural areas, it is often a journey of fear.

Also, in July 2025, the Wife of the Ebonyi State Governor commissioned a three-bedroom housing project for a widow in Obuchie Amajim Ameka Village, Ezza South Local Government Area.

Delivered under the Better Health for Rural Women, Children and Internally Displaced Persons Foundation (BERWO), the project marks a significant step in the First Lady’s sustained efforts to support vulnerable women across the state.

The flat, constructed to provide safe and dignified accommodation, was built in collaboration with the Ebonyi State Ministry of Housing and Urban Development and development partners. The initiative followed months of planning and community engagement, reflecting a shared commitment to social welfare and sustainable empowerment.

In her remarks, Mrs Nwifuru stressed the moral duty to care for widows. “Today, we stand not just on bricks and mortar but on love, compassion and shared humanity. This home stands as an enduring testament to our commitment to those who have lost so much yet remain pillars of strength in our communities,” she said.

Commissioner for Housing and Urban Development, Hon Francis Ori, lauded the First Lady’s compassion and commitment to the wellbeing of women. He also commended the contractors and BERWO for executing the project successfully.

The beneficiary, Mrs Nwuka Nike Nwankwo, expressed gratitude to the First Lady. “Thank you for remembering me in my old age,” she said, praying for divine protection and guidance upon Mrs Nwifuru and her family.