Uncommon Honesty: The Kekwaru Example

A customer care service officer, Ngozi Mary Kekwaru, at Eko Hotel and Suites in Lagos, Nigeria, has been
receiving numerous commendations and awards for her honest and virtuous act. She requited $70,000 left in one of the hotel’s luxurious suites, earning her multiple rewards and accolades. Instead of succumbing to the temptation of keeping the money, her strong moral compass guided her to take the right decision.
Kekwaru’s unwavering commitment to ethical conduct and her dedication to her role as a customer care service officer have set a shining example for both her colleagues and the hospitality industry as a whole. Her actions exemplify the values of trust, reliability, and professionalism. Mary’s story is a demonstration of her high moral standards, leaving a lasting impression on all who hear of her impressive act of honesty.
Recognising the importance of honesty and integrity, she immediately reported the missing money to her superiors and took necessary steps to ensure its safe return to the rightful owner. Her unquestioning devotion to professionalism and ethical conduct sets an exemplary standard for others in the hospitality industry.
News of Ngozi’s momentous act quickly spread, captivating admiration and attention. Her adherence to honesty and integrity caught the eye of an international organisation impressed by her fluent French skills. As a token of appreciation, they offered to assist the conscientious girl in obtaining permanent residency in Canada, gratis! This opportunity acknowledges her exceptional character and abilities.
Kekwaru was highly commended by her local government chairman, Dr Chidi Llyod of Emohua Local Government Council of Rivers State for her outstanding integrity. In appreciation of her honesty, the chairman flew her to Port Harcourt and provided accommodation at a prestigious hotel. Besides, she was presented with an ambassador award and had a building named after her by Llyod. She was further granted a chieftaincy title in her village and awarded a scholarship for a Master’s degree programme.
The Rivers State House of Assembly also applauded the ‘ambassador’, along with two other daughters of the State, for their phenomenal achievements in their respective professions. The Speaker, Rt. Hon. Martin Amaewhule, pledged to donate his August salary to support these three female indigenes. The House agreed to send a letter of commendation to them. This milestone in Kekwaru’s life signifies important progress and presents new prospects for her future.
David Adeleke, also known as Davido, generously offered a $10,000 reward to the Eko Hotel and Suites employee, who displayed exceptional honesty by returning $70,000. This act of integrity in Lagos has garnered vital recognition and adulation. Davido expressed his admiration for Kekwaru’s ethical behaviour on Twitter, stating, ‘Please, help me find her… I will donate $10k.’
In a heartwarming display of appreciation for honesty, the Chairman of Ikwerre Local Government Council, Dr. Samuel Nwanosike, recently fulfilled his promise by redeeming a N2 million pledge to Ngozi Kekwaru. This gesture is a source of encouragement for others to uphold these values. Such acts of appreciation and recognition are crucial in fostering a positive and ethical environment.
Recall that Mrs Joy Oguelo and Mr Emmanuel Nwokejiezi bagged the 2014 Transcorp Hilton’s General Manager (GM) Integrity Award for their honesty and adherence to organisational core values. The two workers of the House-Keeping Department of the hotel were recognised and rewarded for returning $20,000 found in a room to the management for onward transmission to the owner.
In 2021, a 100-level undergraduate at Ignatius Ajuru University of Education in Rivers State, Ami Ugochukwu, was appreciated for his honesty and good conduct. He found a lost phone belonging to a staff member at a restaurant and returned it to its lawful owner. His selfless act earned him a four-year scholarship and a N200,000 upkeep allowance. Ami was also apportioned an excellence award, highlighting his integrity and moral values.
Kekwaru’s conduct deserves recognition. Her honesty stands out in a time when moral values in Nigeria are at an all-time low. The behaviour exhibited by both youth and adults in the country is concerning. In a society dominated by immoral acts and crimes, we must acknowledge and appreciate people like Kekwaru who uphold high moral standards. She sets a positive example for others. Commending and encouraging such conduct plays a vital role in shaping a more ethical and responsible society.
The Eko Hotel and Suites staff exemplifies a counter narrative to the distorted notion that Nigerians are corrupt and dishonest individuals. Kekwaru showcases the truth that there are indeed numerous good-hearted Nigerians who diligently work to earn their living and find contentment in their endeavours. The professionalism and integrity displayed by this young lady not only defy stereotypes but also serve as a testament to the vast potential of the Nigerian people.
It is gratifying to witness the commendations that Kekwaru has been attracting from notable Nigerians. They attest to the aphorism that honesty does indeed pay off. We strongly encourage Nigerians to emulate her exemplary demeanour. This conduct manifests the vision of a new Nigeria we all aspire to see. We must remember that honesty remains the most effective approach in any situation. Hence, Nigerians should uphold these values and contribute towards a better future for the nation.
The Federal Government and the Rivers State Government should consider honouring Kekwaru, who has significantly contributed to Nigeria’s international image and brought great honour to Rivers. Paying tribute to people like her can inspire others to follow suit, as political figures have dominated honours lists for too long. Presenting Kekwaru with national and state awards would send a cogent message that the government values the citizens. That will motivate them to strive for excellence.