Benedicta began her formal education at Central School, Omoba, where she showed early signs of intelligence and determination. However, like many young girls of her time who were not financially privileged, she had to move to Lagos in pursuit of greater educational opportunities. There, she attended Commercial School, Orile, Lagos. It was during these years in Lagos, where she lived with her elder brother, that she developed a deep love for commerce and arithmetic, excelling in the subjects she loved most. Despite the challenges, she remained focused and determined to succeed.

Marriage & Family Life

In 1981, Benedicta’s life took a new and beautiful turn when she married the love of her life, Mr. Nwaukwa Chidi James. Together, they built a life filled with love, mutual respect, and shared dreams. Their marriage was blessed with six children—three boys and three girls—each of whom has grown into successful individuals in various disciplines. Benedicta dedicated her life to ensuring that her children had the tools and support they needed to thrive in their respective fields, always encouraging them to be the best versions of themselves. She was the epitome of love and care, always putting her family first, and her legacy lives on in the values she instilled in them.

Religious Life

Benedicta was a devoted Christian, deeply grounded in her Catholic faith. She was not just a member of the church but an active participant in its growth and development. Her faith was central to everything she did, and she demonstrated her commitment through acts of kindness and generosity. She was known for her unwavering support for the church, both spiritually and materially. Benedicta’s faith was a guiding light for her family, and she continually lived out the Christian values of love, kindness, and service to others.

Vocation & Career

From a young age, Benedicta showed a natural aptitude for business. She had an entrepreneurial spirit that drove her to explore various trades and commercial ventures. Whether it was selling goods, managing businesses, or forging partnerships, she excelled in everything she put her hands to. Her keen business sense, sharp mind for arithmetic, and disciplined approach to work earned her respect in the commercial world.

Benedicta was not only a successful trader but also a visionary who saw opportunities where others might have seen obstacles. She remained resilient through the years, continuously adapting to the ever-changing business environment. Her ventures brought her success, but it was her character, her honesty, and her drive that truly set her apart as a businesswoman.

A Life of Strength & Legacy

Benedicta’s journey was not without challenges. After completing her primary education, she made the bold decision to leave her hometown and move to Lagos to seek a better life. It was during this time that she faced the struggles of a young woman from a humble background, but she never allowed those obstacles to define her. Instead, she forged ahead with determination, knowing that education and hard work were the keys to a brighter future.

Her meeting with Mr. Nwaukwa Chidi James marked the beginning of a beautiful union that would shape the rest of her life. Together, they built a family, and Benedicta’s love for her children and husband was unwavering. She worked tirelessly to provide for them, balancing her commercial ventures with the role of a dedicated mother and wife.

Even when illness struck later in life, Benedicta’s strength never wavered. She fought with courage and dignity, showing her family the true meaning of resilience. Through every hardship, she remained a beacon of love and faith. After a long battle, she succumbed to illness in 2025, but her legacy of strength, love, and perseverance continues to inspire everyone who knew her.

A Woman We Will Never Forget

Benedicta was a woman of many qualities—loving, compassionate, generous, strong, and wise. Her impact extended far beyond her family and friends; she touched the lives of many with her kindness, humility, and selflessness.

She may no longer be with us in body, but her spirit lives on in the lives of her children, in the memories of her loved ones, and in the lessons she taught us all. Benedicta showed us the power of love, faith, and hard work, and she leaves behind a legacy that will never be forgotten.

Rest in peace, dear Benedicta. You will forever be in our hearts, and your love will continue to guide us for all the years to come.

Forever and always, we love you.