The family of the late Mama Helen Chinyere Abalogu, mother of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Abia State Council Secretary, Mr. Iyke Onuegbu, has announced plans to establish an education foundation in her memory to sustain her lifelong passion for learning and the empowerment of the girl child.
Mr. Onuegbu disclosed this on Saturday, March 7, 2026, while briefing journalists at the NUJ Secretariat in Umuahia on preparations for his mother’s funeral. He said the proposed foundation would be formally launched during the burial ceremonies as part of efforts to immortalize her legacy.
According to him, Mama Helen Abalogu passed away on December 6, 2025, at the age of 95.
He explained that her death came at a time when the family was preparing to round off the year, leaving them with deep sorrow but also gratitude for a long and impactful life.
Mr. Onuegbu described his late mother as a devout Christian and respected community leader whose character, warmth and moral guidance positively influenced many lives both within and beyond her family.
He announced that the funeral rites will begin with a service of songs scheduled for April 16, 2026, at Umuaroko Village Square in Umuahia North Local Government Area of Abia State. The event is expected to draw family members, church faithful, journalists and members of the wider community.
The funeral service will hold on April 17, 2026, and will be conducted by the Church of Christ, Amuzuoro Ibeku. The service will take place at the Ndume Otuka Secondary School playground, located near the Industrial Market close to Ahiaeke Market in Umuahia North Local Government Area. Interment will follow immediately after the service.
Family members noted that Mama Helen Abalogu was widely known for encouraging women’s education and promoting the active participation of women in community development throughout her lifetime.
To preserve these values, the family said the foundation to be inaugurated in her honour will focus on programmes that promote women’s development, education and community empowerment.
They explained that the initiative is intended to transform the remembrance of the late matriarch into a lasting platform that supports the advancement of women and young girls in society.
Several members of the Abia State journalism community attended the briefing where the burial arrangements were announced.
Among them were the Chairman of the Staff Welfare Association of the Ministry of Information, Comrade Divine Nwankwo, and the Chairman of the Information Chapel of the NUJ, Comrade Chidinma Enyinnaya, among others.
Speaking at the event, the Chairman of the Information Chapel, Miss Chidinma Enyinnaya, expressed appreciation to colleagues who attended the meeting and pledged that journalists would rally round their colleague and honour the late Mama Abalogu by attending the funeral in large numbers.
The family appealed for prayers and support as preparations continue for the burial ceremonies, describing the forthcoming events as both a solemn farewell and a celebration of a life devoted to faith, family and community service.
