My proudest achievement is my children. Honestly, if anyone called me a billionaire today, I would agree because my children are my billions.

After your husband’s retirement in 1984 and his passing, how did you navigate life without him as your closest companion?

We were always together before he died. Most of my friends and even my children referred to me as “me and my husband.” He never had to tell me to pack my clothes for a trip; I was already accustomed to it. After he passed, I had to handle many things on my own, like paying for electricity and other household tasks. He used to manage all those responsibilities and had warned me that I would miss him because I was dependent on him.

What made your marriage last so long before he passed?

Our marriage would have been 50 years the year he passed. He was a very faithful man, and whenever he went somewhere, I trusted him completely. We often joked about it, but I believed in him, and we laughed together. That trust was essential. Another important aspect was our understanding of our roles; he was the head of the home, and that was sacrosanct. He cared for me immensely in return. In fact, I would say he spoiled me.

How did you find the strength to move on?

After he passed, I stopped working. I had a shop in front of the house, but I couldn’t focus on it anymore, so we rented it out. It was hard to concentrate without him.

Raising six children who all became graduates is no small feat. What values did you and your husband instil in them that shaped their lives?

My husband was a disciplinarian, so they fell in line as military children. Their dad was the bad cop, and I was the good cop, but they didn’t know I was the Rear Admiral encouraging the Commodore. I guess they will know now. We taught them to be independent and not to rely on anyone. We made sure they avoided bad company and focused on their studies. Today, they are happy and supportive of each other. We also encouraged them to be very respectful to others.

You’re also a grandmother to 15 grandchildren. How has that influenced your life?

I am so proud of them. Most of them are grown; out of the 15, 11 are either graduates or in university. They don’t bother me at all, and they always check in on me, calling to ask how I’m doing and telling me I’m doing well. It makes me happy.

ALSO READ  IPOB’s lawyer accuses Anambra govt of violating citizens’ rights, wants all arrested charged to court

How does it feel to be a grandmother at this stage in your life?

I feel so happy; I will be 81 next month. Not every mother achieves this. It’s important to start early in life by teaching children the difference between right and wrong, so they can learn and focus on their future.

You’ve also faced significant challenges, like losing your vision. How has this affected your daily life?

I’ve learned that I can’t move around as much as I used to. My legs ache now too, but I don’t feel bad about it. My children are always around me, and they don’t let me feel like I’m missing anything. I’m fine, really. I have had a great life and no regrets.

Looking back, what are some of your fondest memories of being part of the Naval Officers’ Wives Association?

I remember the camaraderie among the wives. Some have passed away, but we used to do everything together, like going out to buy fresh fish from the waterside market and shopping at Leventis, UTC, and Kingsway. We enjoyed ourselves and supported one another.

Out of all your life and career achievements, which do you consider the most significant?

The most significant is my children. Seeing them and hearing from them makes me happy. Life isn’t all about money; it’s the little things that matter.

What are you grateful to God for?

As I turn 81 next month, I have so much to be grateful to God for. First and foremost, I’m thankful for the gift of life and the good health I have enjoyed over the years, despite some challenges. I am blessed with six wonderful children who have all grown into successful individuals, and they have given me 17 beautiful grandchildren. I’m grateful for the love and support my family continues to show me, especially after the loss of my dear husband.

I’m also thankful for the experiences I’ve had throughout my life, living abroad, meeting new people, and witnessing different cultures. Even though I have lost my vision and face some limitations, I’m surrounded by family who ensure I never feel alone or lacking. God has been faithful in giving me the strength to overcome life’s challenges, and for that, I am deeply thankful.

As a woman who has led in various capacities, what advice do you have for women seeking to balance family, career, and leadership roles?

No matter what career or job you pursue as a woman, always make sure to create time for your husband and children. Many career women nowadays don’t take proper care of their children, which is why you see some children roaming the streets or becoming a nuisance due to a lack of care. Women should be available to care for their families.