Former First Lady of Ondo State, Dr Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu, has been honoured with the “Beacon of Motherhood” Award by the Catholic Youth Organization of Nigeria (CYON), Owerri Archdiocese.
Anyanwu-Akeredolu received the award on Saturday, September 26, 2026, at the Maria Assumpta Cathedral, Owerri, Imo State.
Speaking while receiving the honour, Anyanwu-Akeredolu described the award as a source of humility, gratitude and responsibility, saying motherhood extends beyond biological childbirth to nurturing, protecting, mentoring and creating opportunities for others to thrive.
She said her commitment to young people, particularly through the BEMORE Empowered Girls Foundation, had focused on encouraging girls to overcome societal expectations and limitations.
According to her, the message of the foundation has remained: “Be More”—more than one’s circumstances and limitations, while also becoming more useful to others.
Addressing the youths of the Owerri Archdiocese, Anyanwu-Akeredolu urged them to see themselves not only as leaders of tomorrow but as leaders of today.
She encouraged them to acquire knowledge, develop good character and embrace discipline, compassion and courage, while using their talents to serve society.
The former Ondo First Lady also called on youths and women to participate actively in the country’s democratic and electoral processes by registering to vote, obtaining their Permanent Voter’s Cards and turning out to vote.
She further disclosed her aspiration to represent the people of Owerri Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, saying she intended to be “a voice for the people” by speaking for them and working to secure what she described as their rightful interests.
Describing motherhood as the ability to give life to “dreams, hope, confidence and possibilities,” Anyanwu-Akeredolu dedicated the award to women who, she said, serve as beacons in their communities, including mothers, teachers, widows and mentors.
She also made a donation to support the activities of CYON, Owerri Archdiocese, in recognition of its role in nurturing and empowering young people.
Anyanwu-Akeredolu expressed appreciation to the leadership and members of CYON, particularly the Chairman of the Planning Committee, Engr. Vincent Ugochukwu Ezeakor; the Archdiocesan Youth President, Engr. Emmanuel Chukwuemeka; and the Archdiocesan CYON Chaplain, Rev. Fr. Jude Chukwu.
She described the award as “not a full stop, but a comma,” saying it should serve as a reminder of the need to continue supporting young people, empowering girls, strengthening families and serving communities.
She also acknowledged Aku Augustine, whom she described as a focused and religious young man from her hometown, Emeabiam, for facilitating the courtesy visit that led to her invitation.
Anyanwu-Akeredolu urged the youths to make a difference wherever they find themselves, saying they should start from where they are, use what they have and serve with whatever gifts they have received.