By Victor Akaa.
In a momentous ceremony held at Santa Clara University in California’s Silicon Valley on November 14, Nigerian Catholic Sister (Sr) Francisca Ngozi Uti was bestowed the esteemed 2024 Opus Prize, recognizing her extraordinary humanitarian endeavours.
As founder and executive director of the Centre for Women Studies and Intervention (CWSI) in Abuja, Nigeria, Sr Ngozi’s tireless efforts to empower marginalized communities have earned her this distinguished honour.
With profound gratitude, Sr Ngozi accepted the $1.2 million award, acknowledging the trust placed in her organization. “Words seem inadequate to capture the depth of my joy. My heart overflows with gratitude.
“I never dreamed the work my team and I have been doing in remote communities would gain recognition, not just locally but across the Atlantic in the United States.” She expressed.
Sr Ngozi attributed her success to her father’s unwavering support for her education, despite societal challenges. She also credited her congregation’s founder, Mother Mary Charles Magdalene Walker, as an inspiration for her life of courage and faith.
Under Sr Ngozi’s leadership, CWSI has made significant strides in empowering women to become politically aware, socially responsible, and economically independent.
Her organization advocates for women’s inclusion in government roles and enforcement of legal provisions against gender-based violence in five Nigerian states.
The Opus Prize jury’s recognition of Sr Ngozi’s mission serves as a testament to her unwavering dedication. “By choosing CWSI as the 2024 Opus Prize winner, you have placed a significant responsibility on us; to whom much is given, much is expected,” she said.
Sr Ngozi extended her appreciation to her fellow finalists, Jesuit Father Zachariah Presutti of Thrive for Life Prison Project in New York and Cătălin and Bianca Albu of Jesuit Refugee Service in Romania.
“This recognition is not just for me or CWSI. It is for every woman and girl whose resilience and courage inspire our mission.
“May God bless you abundantly for your generosity and support,” she emphasized
The Opus Prize celebrates faith-based leaders addressing systemic issues and transforming lives in meaningful ways. With this honour, Sister Ngozi’s work continues to uplift countless lives across Nigeria, cementing her legacy as a champion of humanitarianism and social justice.
Culled from Vanguard newspapers.
