Emmanuel Ubochi, a care assistant at Meallmore’s Grove Care Home, has received a prestigious honour in Nigeria.

The knighthood was awarded by the Anglican Church at the Cathedral of the Transfiguration of Our Lord in Owerri, southern Nigeria to both Emmanuel and his wife, Ngozi Ubochi, in recognition of their exceptional dedication and service to their community.

Ubochi said: “I am humbled that I was called to receive this honour, and that I was able to travel to Nigeria to receive the knighthood. It has made me more aware of the call for more service to humanity, which is reflected in my work at Grove, as well as the church.

“I have come to realise that whatever I have, no matter how little, is for me to help improve the lives of others and put a smile on their faces. That is what humanity is all about. That is also what the investiture into the knighthood of St Christopher is all about – a recognition of good work to the church and community, and a call to do more work.”

Notable activities that the couple helped with in their local community included distributing food items for families during the Covid-19 pandemic, assisting in academic school fees for primary school-aged children, and contributing financially to church projects including a new secondary school in the community.

Emmanuel moved to the UK with his immediate family in January 2023, and has been working at the Grove since March 2023. Prior to this, he worked in healthcare roles in Nigeria.

Moira Taylor, care home manager at Grove, added: “I am really pleased Emmanuel was able to go home to attend this ceremony and receive this honour. It is heartening to know we have such a genuine person working in our care home, caring for our residents with such compassion.

“Whilst we work with and care for people of all faiths and no faiths at The Grove, the Meallmore family extends its heartfelt congratulations to Emmanuel and Ngozi on this significant achievement, recognising their commitment to both professional responsibilities and service to their Nigerian community.”

Ubochi is described by colleagues at Grove as a true gentleman with a lovely bright personality. As a care assistant, he goes above and beyond to ensure the residents are well looked after.

Grove Care Home, located in Kemnay, Inverurie, is run by leading care home provider, Meallmore Ltd.