In a stirring demonstration of unity, resilience, and cultural fidelity, Imo women in the United Kingdom have risen as a powerful collective force dedicated to shaping a better future both for themselves and for their communities in Imo State, Nigeria.
Spearheading this transformative movement is Chief (Mrs.) Dominica Aghaluke Akaepuchiowa, whose visionary leadership is driving a renewed sense of identity, responsibility, and shared purpose among Imo women abroad.
Following a widely attended strategic meeting in the UK, Chief Aghaluke reaffirmed the commitment of the group to a long-term agenda focused on welfare, empowerment, cultural revival, and impactful giving.
Holding the esteemed title of Chief (Mrs) Dominica of Awo-Omamma, Imo State, she described the group’s mission as both a moral imperative and a cultural calling, rooted in compassion, community service, and sisterhood.
“We are moving further and are ready to change the narratives not just for our members here in the UK, but for our people back home in Imo State, Nigeria. This is a new era, and we are fully committed to making a difference,” she declared
She noted that the organization was ready and determined to be a force that will foster unity amongst the Imo people just as she reiterated the need for community heritage and collective ambition.
Formed in June 2024, Imo State Women, UK has emerged as a timely response to the growing need for structured cultural engagement and social intervention.
She emphasized that the organization was born not as a social group, but as a response to a deep longing to preserve the heritage of the Imo people with the aim to foster a strong support system among women in the diaspora while channeling resources toward meaningful humanitarian causes back home.
Chief Aghaluke disclosed that the plight of the underprivileged remains a central focus of Group’s work, especially those living with disabilities or struggling under the weight of economic hardship.
Stating further, Chief Aghaluke stated that the organization’s programs were deliberately designed to uplift the vulnerable and create pathways for long-term empowerment through education, health care, and vocational training.
“We recognize that the current economic challenges in Nigeria affect everyone, especially the most vulnerable. That is why we are committed to being part of the solution through targeted support, education sponsorships, and skills empowerment,” she noted with conviction.
She highlighted that the organization was not blind to the broader structural challenges facing Imo people, citing security concerns, youth disillusionment, and deteriorating welfare systems as urgent issues.
Speaking with emphasis, Chief Aghaluke noted that rather than feel helpless from afar, the group decided to leverage on its collective strength to serve as a bridge between the diaspora and local development efforts.
“We cannot sit back while our communities face hardship and insecurity. Through collective effort, advocacy, and partnerships, we will support initiatives that restore dignity, safety, and opportunity to our people,” she affirmed.
Adding her voice to the conversation, Mrs. Veronica Chika Osagiede, the Vice President of Imo Women UK and Founder / CEO of Vera Gold Foundation, described the organization as a beacon of hope for many women and families.
She insisted that the organization felt the pains of people living with disabilities and disadvantaged, stating that they are now intersected with the power of the broader vision of their organization
“This initiative was born from a shared passion to assist those with disabilities and to open educational opportunities for disadvantaged children. It’s about rewriting the story of our people,” Mrs. Chika said, highlighting the deep humanitarian pulse of the organization.
She lamented the moral decadence and educational setbacks that have plagued the state, but remained optimistic that the efforts of determined women could reverse the trend.
Mrs Chika noted that in less than one year, the Imo women in the UK have gathered more than one hundred members, reaffirming their commitment to lifting others.
“In under one year, we’ve grown to over 100 active members. That’s not just encouraging, it’s a sign that women are ready to help women. We are pushing forward, and we will keep pushing for the betterment of our people,” she added.
She revealed that as the organization gains momentum, they were already mapping out programs aimed at scaling their impact.
“ Our Plans include a series of women’s empowerment workshops, educational support drives, health outreach initiatives, and cultural festivals that will serve to reconnect Imo children in the diaspora with their ancestral roots.” She insisted
“For the members of Imo Women UK, this is far more than a cultural group, it is a living movement. It is a call to service, a reaffirmation of identity, and a platform through which diaspora women can shape policy, transform lives, and leave a legacy of care and commitment.”
Mrs Chika stated that the organization was a movement of empowered women who are ready to uplift their sisters, defend their culture, and change lives,” She added
“In a world where many struggle to bridge the gap between intention and impact, the women of Imo in the UK are proving that with unity, vision, and compassion, transformation is not only possible, it is inevitable..”
