Sister Francisca Uti on has won the 2024 Opus prize laureate, which comes with a $1.2 million award recognizing transformative humanitarian work.
Sister Uti, the founder and executive director of the Centre for Women Studies and Intervention (CWSI) in Abuja, won $1.2 million award in recognition of her transformative humanitarian work.
In her address during the award ceremony at Santa Clara University, a Jesuit university in Silicon Valley, the Sister UtI, a member of the Congregation of the Handmaids of the Holy Child Jesus, said that words cannot express her joy.
“Did I ever imagine being nominated as the laureate? Honestly, no. Words seem inadequate to capture the depth of my joy. My heart overflows with gratitude.
“I never dreamed that the work my team and I have been doing in these remote communities would gain recognition not only within our state, but beyond our nation’s borders crossing the Atlantic and reaching as far as the United States of America,” Sister Uti stated.
In thanking the Opus Prize jury, for choosing her as the winner, she added that: “You believed and still believe in the work that my team and I do to alleviate the sufferings and trauma of those marginalized through no fault of their own.
“By choosing CWSI as the 2024 Opus prize winner, you have placed a significant responsibility on us; to whom much is given, much is expected. CWSI will not betray your trust.
“I accept this award on behalf of all the women, girls, and men who have partnered with us to bring about positive change in their lives and in their communities.
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“I remember especially the women and girls who have endured hardship and are now striving to rebuild their lives.”
Reflecting on her ministry over the years, Sister Uti credited her father for ensuring she received an educationz despite societal limitations, and also paid homage to HHCJ foundress Mother Mary Charles Magdalene Walker.
“To the past and present staff of CWSI who have made countless sacrifices out of love for God and humanity, I am deeply grateful. This recognition is not just for me or CWSI. It is for every woman and girl whose resilience and courage inspire our mission. May God bless you abundantly for your generosity and support,” Sister Uti said.
CWSI seeks to help women become politically aware, socially responsible, and economically independent for greater autonomy and parity with men.
The Abuja-based entity also advocates for the inclusion of women in governance and for legal provisions to combat gender-based violence in five Nigerian states.
