A Father, A Foundation, A Legacy: PWAN Nation Celebrates Chief Ezeoma Onwumere’s Life of Impact
*Leaders, partners, and loved ones honour the patriarch whose values shaped the PWAN dream
It was a moment of reflection, reverence and gratitude as the PWAN Nation gathered at St. Dominic’s Catholic Church, Yaba recently for the Requiem Mass in honour of Chief Ezeoma Anthony Onwumere, father of PWAN Group founder, Dr. Augustine Onwumere.
The late Chief, who passed on at the graceful age of 82, was celebrated not only as a devoted father and man of faith but as the moral compass whose virtues helped define one of Africa’s greatest real estate success stories.
The event drew an august assembly of dignitaries, clergy, business leaders and members of the PWAN family, who came together to celebrate a man described by many as “a father to all, a giver without borders, and a pillar of quiet strength.”
The requiem mass, presided over by Rev. Fr. Pascal Ogbu, featured a touching homily delivered by Rev. Fr. Moses Ani (O.P.), a close friend of the Onwumere family.
Father Ani described Chief Onwumere as “a man whose faith was his anchor, whose charity knew no bounds, and whose humility drew people closer to God.” He recounted how, in his later years, even when physical strength waned, Chief Onwumere’s devotion remained steadfast — receiving Holy Communion at home as a sign of his unbroken connection with the Church.
“When he could not come to the altar,” the priest said, “the altar came to him. That is the measure of his faith.”
He urged the family to sustain their father’s legacy of service, generosity and faith, reminding the congregation that “a good man’s memory is a sermon that never stops speaking.”
The Trinity Choir and Parish Choir filled the sanctuary with soulful hymns, transforming grief into gratitude as they sang praises to God for a life beautifully lived.
The service was graced by Dr. Augustine Onwumere, the pioneer Chairman of PWAN Group and founder PWAN Max Group, alongside his wife, Dr. Jayne Onwumere, the PWAN Global President and Co-founder. They were joined by the Group’s Executive Chairman/CEO, Dr. Afamefuna Michael Okonkwo; Group Managing Director, Prof. Julius Oyedemi, amidst other leaders.
In attendance also were affiliate and centre heads such as Surulere’s Super Ambassador Ebele Igwenagu, Lekki’s Chinedu ‘Jaddon’ Orji; and numerous PWAN Business Owners (PBOs) who came from across the country to honour their patriarch.
Their presence underscored the unity and strength of the PWAN family — a company built not just on real estate, but on enduring values of faith, family and service.
Speaking at the ceremony, Dr. Afam Okonkwo reflected on the late patriarch’s remarkable simplicity and the far-reaching impact of his values.
“Chief Ezeoma was not just the father of our founder — he was the spirit of resilience behind the PWAN story,” Dr. Afam said. “His quiet discipline and integrity mirror the core principles we stand for as an organization. His legacy teaches us that greatness begins with goodness, and that true success is measured by the lives you touch.”
He added that PWAN’s continued rise, even amid challenges, is evidence of divine favour upon a foundation built on righteousness and hard work — the very qualities embodied by Chief Onwumere.
In his own tribute, Prof. Julius Oyedemi described Chief Onwumere as “a father whose life became the soil from which a movement of empowerment grew.”
“Chief Onwumere’s humility and generosity are the unseen foundations of what we call the PWAN dream today,” Prof. Oyedemi said. “He raised a son who believed that real estate could be democratized, and a daughter-in-law who turned that belief into an unstoppable movement. Every land allocation, every commission earned, and every family empowered is a living testament to his influence.”
In a heartfelt vote of thanks, a representative of the Onwumere family expressed profound appreciation to the clergy, friends, business associates and PWAN partners for their prayers, support, and presence.
“We are humbled by this great show of love,” the family’s spokesperson said. “From our priests to our church societies, from our PWAN family to those who travelled from afar — thank you. Your presence comforts us, and your prayers strengthen us.”
The family also extended gratitude to the Sacred Heart Society, St. Anthony’s Guild, Catholic Charismatic Movement, and other parish groups who contributed to the success of the service.
One relative, Bro. John Paul, captured the essence of the gathering when he remarked:
“After 80, what next? Papa lived a fruitful life. He has done his part, left us legacies to emulate, and now rests in the arms of God. His memory will continue to inspire generations.”
A Celebration of Life at Paradise Hotel
After the mass, the celebration of life continued at Paradise Hotel, Alagomeji, where family, friends and PWAN partners gathered for a grand reception filled with warmth, music and reminiscences.
The atmosphere reflected both the solemnity of farewell and the joy of thanksgiving. Groups such as the Parish Laity Council, Umuhu Okabia United Citizens Association, Nigerian Red Cross Society (Lagos Branch), and Bethel Ventures Limited paid glowing tributes to the late Chief, praising his lifelong commitment to community development, philanthropy and peace.
Chief Onwumere, a respected businessman and community leader, held numerous traditional titles, including Ezeoma of Umuhu-Okabia and Iri Kaa Nnu I of Orsu. He was celebrated as a pacesetter who used his influence to uplift his community, educate the less privileged, and support causes that strengthened both faith and society.
For the PWAN family, the requiem was not just a farewell; it was a renewal of purpose — a reminder of the enduring values that underpin the company’s mission of empowerment through real estate.
As Prof. Oyedemi summarized, “Chief Onwumere’s life is the seed that became a forest. His values — faith, hard work and compassion — are the same principles that drive PWAN today.”
In every affiliate across Nigeria, in every property sold, and in every entrepreneur empowered, the spirit of Chief Ezeoma Anthony Onwumere lives on. His legacy continues to guide the hands and hearts of those building dreams under the PWAN banner.
As the final hymns of thanksgiving filled the air and candles flickered in reverent memory, one truth stood tall among all gathered:
A good man never truly dies. He lives forever — in the faith he taught, the lives he touched, and the legacy he left behind.