The Foundation

A soldier, an Elder, a bridge-builder, and to his family, simply Daddy. Built by those who loved him, to keep his good work going.

Black-and-white portrait of Elder Emetu Ezera as a young man, seated in a wooden chair holding sunglasses, smiling.
Elder Emetu Ezera, 1949 – 2024

Who he was

was born in 1949 in Itu, Akwa Ibom State, to a family from Ebem Ohafia in Abia State. He was one of only two surviving children out of eleven, and the losses of his early years shaped him into a father who was always present.

He served in the Nigerian Army and fought in the Nigerian Civil War, then built his own businesses. He was ordained a Ruling Elder of the Presbyterian Church of Nigeria, served as Session Clerk for six years, and taught Sunday School to children and adults alike. Many people called him their “second father” or “favourite papa.”

He and his wife, Elder Arunma Ezera, raised five children, Mary, Alice, Ezera, Uwa and Ola, and lived to know 14 grandchildren. They gave much of what they had so that every child could finish school, and he never missed a milestone. He sang to each of them on their birthdays.

A family gathered on sofas in a living room, smiling together, with grandparents, parents, children and two babies.
The family he loved and lived for.
An older man in a patterned maroon and gold outfit and a red bow tie, smiling as he dances beside an older woman in a cream dress and pink headwrap, with a tiered cake behind them.
Celebrating with joy.
  1. 1949Born in Itu, Akwa Ibom State.
  2. 1967 – 1970Fought in the Nigerian Civil War with the Nigerian Army.
  3. 1978Sat the JAMB examination among its pioneering candidates.
  4. 1998Ordained a Ruling Elder at Kaduna Urban Parish, Presbyterian Church of Nigeria.
  5. 2012Moved to Aba and served at PCN Umuola Parish as Elder Commissioner and Congregational Board Chairman.
  6. 2024Passed away at the age of 75, with all five children through university.

In their words

“You fought the good fight, you finished the race, and you kept the faith.”
Arunma Ezera, his wife of over 40 years
“You were more of a friend than a father to us.”
Uwa, his daughter
“You taught me to love God and put family first in all my endeavors.”
Ezera, his son
“Your life spoke volumes each and every day.”
Emmanuel, his son-in-law

What we do

What he gave his own family, the foundation gives to others. Every gift goes toward four things he lived for.

Scholarships

He and his wife sacrificed to see all five children graduate. These awards do the same for students whose families are stretching to keep them in school.

Community development

He gave his time to community groups in Ohafia and Ebem and volunteered wherever he was needed. We fund practical projects led with the communities they serve.

Economic empowerment

After the army he found joy in building businesses. Training and small grants help others start something of their own and earn a steady living.

Leadership

From Youth Fellowship president to Session Clerk, he led by serving. Mentoring and programmes prepare young people to lead with faith, integrity and care.

Give in his name

Any amount helps. Choose one, and we’ll be in touch by email to complete your gift.

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Share a memory

A story, a lesson, a moment you still think about. We read every one, and with your permission we’ll share some here.