My husband’s death turned me into a prison minister — 84-year-old retired teacher

Eunice Fowowe, a 84-year-old retired teacher, shares her life story with TEMITOPE ADETUNJI, covering her childhood, education, marriage, faith, and service. Born on August 30, 1942, Eunice grew up in different parts of Nigeria and attended several schools in various locations. She began her education at Sido School in Warri and later moved to St. Stephen's School in Ipele, Holy Trinity School in Kano, and Patience Modern School in Lagos.

After obtaining her Modern II Certificate, Eunice continued her studies at Oriel School in Abule Nla, Apapa Road, and obtained her Grade III Certificate. She then attended St. Helen's College in Ondo and later the University of Ife, where she obtained her A.C.E. certificate.

Teaching was always a calling for Eunice, inspired by her father who wanted her and her siblings to become teachers or nurses. She started her teaching career at St. Patrick's School in Owo, where she worked from 1963 to 1964. Eunice later taught at Victory College in Ikare, Multilateral Grammar School in Okun-Owa, Comprehensive High School in Odogbolu, St. Peter's Claver School in Esure, Ijebu-Imusin, Moslem School in Isonyin, St. Thomas Anglican Church in Ikare-Akoko, St. Michael's Anglican Church in Epe, and Christ the King Anglican Church in Ajegunle. She was involved in women's and children's ministries at various churches throughout her life.

Eunice married Jacob Owolabi Fowowe on July 8, 1967. Together, they had children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Eunice found fulfillment in being married to a clergyman, as their shared calling and service to God made the church and the people they served an important part of their family life. Tragically, her husband died on December 17, 2002, while preparing to visit Kirikiri Prison. This event led Eunice to become involved in prison ministry, following in her husband's footsteps.