Veteran writer, Elder Okay Ugwa, has expressed deep sorrow over the death of Nkemakolam Ugwa, describing his passing as a painful and shocking loss to his family, friends, and associates.
In a tribute, Elder Ugwa described the late Nkemakolam, fondly known as “Nkem,” as a peaceful, humble, friendly, and ever-smiling gentleman who was deeply committed to his family and loved ones.
He recalled persuading Nkemakolam to return home from Western Nigeria in the 1980s and helping him secure employment with the then Imo Newspapers, where he distinguished himself through dedication, professionalism, and hard work.
According to him, Nkemakolam became one of the most trusted and reliable drivers attached to the office of the General Manager. Following the creation of Abia State in 1991, he was transferred to the Abia Newspapers and Publishing Corporation, publishers of the National Ambassador Newspaper, where he continued to serve diligently.
Elder Ugwa described the deceased as a hardworking professional who left behind a legacy of integrity, commitment, and excellence.
Drawing strength from 2 Timothy 4:7-8, he said Nkemakolam had “fought the good fight, finished the race, and kept the faith.”
He prayed for the peaceful repose of his soul and urged God to grant the Ugwa family, especially the descendants of late Mazi Ugwa Onyeabo, the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.
“May his gentle soul rest in perfect peace, and may Almighty God comfort all who mourn him,” Elder Ugwa said.
Meanwhile, the officiating minister of Mountain of Divine Grace Ministry, Pastor Richard Amamba, has reminded Christians of the certainty of divine judgment, stressing that every individual will one day give account of their life before God.
Delivering a homily titled; “There Is a Day for Judgement”, Pastor Amamba called on mourners and believers to embrace repentance and live righteous lives in preparation for eternity.
Drawing his message from biblical passages including Revelation 20:11-15, 2 Corinthians 5:10, Romans 14:10, and Hebrews 9:27, the cleric emphasized that no one can escape God’s judgment, regardless of social status, wealth, or earthly accomplishments.
He noted that while many people neglect spiritual matters and reject the call to worship and repentance, heaven keeps a record of every action carried out on earth. According to him, the day of judgment is certain and will ultimately determine every person’s eternal destiny.
Late Mr. Nkemakolam Obadiah Ugwa, popularly known as “Mr. Kems,” was born on April 2, 1949, in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, to the family of Late Mazi Robert Obasi Ugwa and Late Mrs. Mercy Chinuru Obasi Ugwa of Elugwunta Ndiohia Amaba, Isuikwuato Local Government Area of Abia State. Renowned for his courage, integrity and selflessness, he earned the nickname “Agu” (The Lion) among his peers. As a young man, he participated in the Nigerian Civil War and survived the conflict, returning home to the joy of his family. A talented footballer, he later played as a prolific striker for Gwagwala Football Club in Makurdi, Benue State, helping the team achieve notable success before a career-ending injury cut short his sporting ambitions.
Mr. Ugwa built a distinguished public service career, beginning with the Imo Newspapers in 1983 before transferring to Abia Newspapers, publishers of the National Ambassador, following the creation of Abia State in 1991. He later served in the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, rising from Senior Works Superintendent to retire as Chief Works Superintendent in 2014. A devoted husband to Mrs. Pauline Ngozi Ugwa and father of six children, he was deeply committed to his family and faith. Despite losing a daughter in December 2024 and battling a brain tumour from June 2025, he remained steadfast until his passing. Until his death, he was an active member of Mountain of Divine Grace Ministry, Olokoro, Umuahia, leaving behind a legacy of service, resilience, faith and love for family.
