By Nkechinyere Ewa-Okpara
It was a moment of joy, reflection, and deep gratitude as Chief. Austin Umahi gave out his daughter, Sharon Chidera, in marriage on Wednesday.
Surrounded by family, friends, and dignitaries from the state and beyond including Governor Francis Nwifuru and wife, Minister of works Engr David Umahi who is his elder brother, In-laws from Okposi Ohazara local government, the visibly happy Austin described the day as one of the most special in his life, filled with emotions only a father could truly understand.
Speaking to journalists during the ceremony, he expressed profound joy and a sense of fulfilment, giving all the glory to God for the journey that began 23 years ago when his daughter was born.
“It’s just by God’s grace, not by any man’s effort,” he said, beaming with pride. “I still remember 23 years back when this girl I’m giving out in marriage today was born. Now, someone has come to snatch her from me it’s laughable but also humbling.”
Chief. Umahi described his daughter as exceptionally focused and God-fearing, recalling how she pursued her academic dreams with uncommon determination. Chidera earned first-class honours in her first and second degrees from University College London and has since gained employment in the United Kingdom.
“Despite all her achievements, her humility is striking,” he noted. “She’s never had an entitlement mentality. She believes in herself and what she can do, which makes me so proud of her.”
The proud father spoke highly of his daughter’s upbringing, attributing her values to a strong foundation in faith and family.
He praised her husband, noting that what assured him most about giving her away was the young man’s fear of God an attribute he believes is crucial for a successful marriage.
“My daughter always said she wanted to marry a man like her father,” he recalled. “And I told her, ‘No, you must marry someone better than me.’ And today, she did. Her husband is a man of deep faith and discipline he even made a first class, something I didn’t achieve.”
Reflecting on his marriage, Mr. Umahi shared that his daughter had grown up in a home of love and mutual respect, where misunderstandings were handled maturely and violence had no place.
“She has never seen me raise my hand on her mother,” he said. “She has witnessed love in action and will replicate and improve on that in her own home.”
Describing his daughter as the “fire” of their home, he admitted he would miss her presence dearly.
“She lights up every room she enters. You can’t be upset when she’s around,” he said emotionally. “That’s what we’ll miss most.”
For the younger generation, Chief. Umahi had a powerful message: “Stay focused and hold onto God”. He urged young people not to let distractions derail their life goals and encouraged them to build strong moral character from an early age.
“Chidera blocked all thoughts of marriage while in school she was that focused,” he said. “She finished her first degree at 20, her second at 21, and is now gainfully employed. Focus and prayer will always take you far.”
He also called on parents to take a more active role in shaping their children’s lives, stressing that the family is the foundation of society.
“School cannot train your child; it can only improve what the parents have already built. If the foundation is faulty, there’s little anyone can do,” he said. “Start early teach them God’s word, monitor what they bring home, and never let material things take the place of values.”
As he concluded, Mr. Umahi thanked all who graced the occasion, saying their presence was not taken for granted.
“The crowd I saw today humbled me. I don’t feel I merited it, but I know it’s the grace of God.”
The celebration was not only a joyous union of two lives but also a touching testament to faith, parenting, and enduring family values.
Guests were entertained with special delicacies and cultural displays.