Culture , tradition, and the cherished values of motherhood took centre stage as the Women Wing of the Enugwu-Ukwu Community Development Union (ECDU), Lagos Branch, hosted its maiden “Celebration of Motherhood”, a colourful event designed to honour women and preserve the rich heritage of the Enugwu-Ukwu people.
  
The landmark gathering brought together men, women, families, community leaders, and cultural enthusiasts in a vibrant display of unity, identity, and appreciation for the critical role mothers play in nurturing homes, preserving traditions, and building communities.
   
Dressed in colourful traditional attire, participants showcased the beauty of Igbo culture through music, dance, and cultural displays that celebrated the enduring influence of women in society.
  
There were presentations by the women on the importance of love in the family. Also, there was a pep talk on the role of women in the home. To support the women, the men of the town and the men’s wing came out in their numbers. Some supported the presentation of the delicacies with generous cash donations.
  
Highlights of the event were the presentation of the town’s different delicacies dubbed ‘Cherished Mama’s Pot’, such as Ukwa, Fiofio, Akidi, Ukpaka Igbagboka, and Abacha, among others, prepared by the ancient mothers, a symbolic cultural initiative aimed at reconnecting younger generations with the values, wisdom, and culinary heritage passed down by mothers over the years.
  
Speaking during the event, Mrs. Ifeoma Okekearu, President, ECDU Women Wing, Lagos, described the initiative as a deliberate effort to preserve the indigenous custom while strengthening family bonds and cultural pride among community members.
  
She added that the celebration was conceived to recognise the sacrifices, resilience, and contributions of mothers while creating a platform for cultural education and community engagement.
  
“Motherhood is appreciating women. The mothers who gave birth to us trained and made us who we are. In a home, if there’s no mother, that home will be somehow. In fact, mothers are the nucleus of the home. They are the one that trains the children, they are the one that cares about the father,” she said.
  
According to her, motherhood remains one of society’s most powerful institutions, shaping values, nurturing future generations, and sustaining the social fabric of communities.
  
“Without the mothers, the fathers will not be complete in their home. So, that’s why we decided today that we are going to celebrate them, appreciate them for what they have done.

They have raised so many giants; they have done so many works in society, but nobody appreciates them. So today, we want to appreciate the mothers,” Okekearu added.
  
Beyond the festivities, the event also served as a reminder of the importance of preserving cultural identity in an increasingly globalised world. The ECDU Women president stressed the need to pass traditional values, language, customs, and family heritage to younger generations to ensure they remain connected to their roots.
  
Community leaders commended the women for initiating the programme, describing it as a timely intervention that promotes unity, cultural continuity, and intergenerational learning. Among eminent personalities in attendance was His Royal Majesty, Igwe Sir Ralph Obumnemeh Ekpeh (Okpalanakana Ukabia Nri V), Eze Enugwu-Ukwu na Igwe Umunri, represented by His Royal Highness, Eze Ozonkpu Sir Augustine A. Ebisi (Ezeudo Ojodu Kingdom), Omentuka Enugwu-Ukwu na Umunri.
  
Others are Ozonkpu Barr. Jude Ekwunife (Okwuatuegwu Enugwu-Ukwu na Umunri), chairman of the occasion; Chief Theodore Omalu (Ozonkpu Ukwachinaka Enugwu-Ugwu na Umunri), Special Guest of Honour, and Chief C.J Okekearu (Okutalukwe IV Enugwu-Ukwu na Umunri, Chief Unveiler.
  
The event also provided opportunities for networking, mentorship, and discussions on family development, women’s empowerment, and community growth. As songs echoed and traditional delicacies filled the venue, the atmosphere reflected more than a celebration — it represented a collective commitment to preserving culture, strengthening family values, and honouring the women whose sacrifices continue to shape society.