Enugu: Nollywood actress, Racheal Okonkwo, on Sunday, distributed food items to 500 widows and provided free medical care to more than 5,000 patients in Nsukka, Enugu. Okonkwo, popularly known as ‘Nkoli Nwa Nsukka’, made the donation as part of activities to mark the 8th edition of her annual ‘Nkoli Mega Carnival Season,’ held at the Nsukka Central Stadium.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Okonkwo explained that the carnival was inspired by her personal experience of poverty and a desire to support vulnerable people in society. She shared that her motivation stemmed from her upbringing, stating, “I came from nothing, didn’t have any legacy to leverage on and do not have any rich uncle or aunt. My father died when I was 13 years old, as I understand, what it means not to have my next meal or have school fees.”
The actress highlighted the challenges she faced in seeking help due to the lack of resources within her family, which drove her to start this initiative. “I therefore know what people in my shoes are going through and that made me to start this initiative,” she added. The programme, traditionally held on Easter Sunday, was suspended in 2023 due to rising costs, but the 2026 edition was revived with a new component of medical outreach.
For the first time, the carnival included a medical outreach, thanks to a partnership with the Franklin Junior Foundation, which enabled the programme to provide free healthcare to thousands. Mr. David Ofogba, Director of Programmes at the US-based foundation, stated that the foundation provided wheelchairs, walking aids, medications, and treated over 5,000 patients since the outreach’s commencement.
The Commissioner for Culture and Tourism in Enugu, Mrs. Ugochi Madueke, praised Okonkwo for her philanthropic efforts, describing her as a ‘worthy daughter and ambassador of Enugu’ and encouraging others to follow her example. Beneficiary Mrs. Ngozika Ugwu expressed gratitude for the medical assistance, offering prayers for Okonkwo’s generosity.
The News Agency of Nigeria also reported that the food items distributed included 500 bags of 10kg rice, 500 cartons of tomato paste, cartons of Indomie, school bags, children’s clothing, among others.