Norah Okafor Launches Advocacy Office, Expands Mission to Empower Women and Girls
Unveils Business Enterprise
Ambassador Norah Okafor, a prominent journalist and gender rights advocate in Abia State, has officially unveiled the new office of her non-profit organization, Protect the Precious Foundation, located at 6 Crowther Street, Umuahia.
Speaking during the unveiling, Ambassador Okafor said the foundation was established to provide a platform that protects and amplifies the voices of the girl child and other vulnerable children in society.
Recalling her own childhood struggles growing up in a male-dominated environment, Okafor said those early life challenges shaped her passion for advocacy. “There were many nights I cried over difficult situations,” she shared. “But those experiences pushed me to become a strong voice for the rights of women and girls.”
Over the past seven years, she has worked tirelessly as an advocate, offering mentorship, counseling, and support to young girls and women. She expressed joy that the new centre now offers a safe and confidential space where girls, women, and even boys can freely share their challenges.
“We assess their cases and select the ones we can handle,” she said, “working in collaboration with the Ministries of Justice, Women Affairs, and other relevant agencies to ensure that these voices are heard.”
Reflecting on her journey, she said:
“I remember the many nights I cried over difficult cases—some lost due to legal technicalities, and others we triumphed in. I think of the girls I’ve mentored and raised, whom I proudly call ‘my daughters.’ Sometimes I tell myself: if I were to leave this world today, I may not have biological children, but I’ve transferred my values, my resilience, and my vision to so many girls who will carry the baton forward.”
Okafor also celebrated her recent induction as a Speaking Ambassador for Peace by the United Nations, calling it a humbling honor and a renewed call to action.
“This recognition reaffirms my commitment to ensure that the rights of girls and women are not only acknowledged but actively championed. It’s a reminder that the echoes of our work are reaching far beyond Abia—reverberating across the world.”
In her new role, she said she is more determined than ever to deepen the fight for justice, amplify the voices of the marginalized, and help women and girls fulfill their God-given potential.
“It’s a call to challenge the myths and stereotypes that continue to hold many of us back,” she stated. “It hasn’t been easy, but the fulfillment comes in watching girls and women thrive beyond expectations.”
She pledged to continue advocating for justice, dignity, and opportunity for every woman and girl, assuring them of her readiness to listen, support, and champion their cause.
“I will fight for your justice when necessary—and above all, soar with you on eagle’s wings,” she assured.
Also speaking at the event, Okafor announced the launch of her new business venture an Intimate Wears Boutique aimed at providing a variety of high-quality fashion items including underwear, nightwear, homewear, and more for men and women.
She explained that the business was inspired by a personal vision and her long-standing entrepreneurial spirit.
“This wasn’t accidental. I’ve always been a hustler with a passion for multiple income streams,” she said. “Growing up, I sold garri, agidi, jollof rice, and meat on the streets to survive. Those experiences taught me independence at an early age.”
She described how the idea came to her during a moment of reflection:
“One day, I heard a voice in my sleep saying, ‘You can start a business.’ I asked what kind, and it said: ‘Pant and bra.’ I was hesitant at first, but I shared the idea with one or two people who encouraged me.”
Starting with online sales of women’s underwear, she gradually expanded the business based on customer feedback, eventually incorporating men’s products and broader fashion categories.
“Now we stock everything—from pants to bras, men’s boxers to nightwear and homewear,” she said. “It’s a brand that caters to everyone.”
She expressed gratitude for the support she has received over the years and encouraged others, especially women, to pursue their dreams with courage and determination.
