Dame Judith Amaechi is a Nigerian philanthropist and advocate known for her work empowering women and children in the Niger Delta through her organization, the Empowerment Support Initiative (ESI). She is also the wife of former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi and has been recognized nationally for her humanitarian efforts.
Profile Summary
| Full Name | Dame Judith Obiajulu Amaechi (née Nwankwo) |
| Date of Birth | 24 December 1970 |
| Place of Birth | Enugu Ukwu, Anambra State, Nigeria |
| Nationality | Nigerian |
| State of Origin | Anambra State (by birth) |
| Partner | Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi (married in 1993) |
| Children | Three sons |
| Occupations | Philanthropist, NGO Founder, Urban Planner, Former First Lady of Rivers State |
| Net Worth | N/A |
Early Life and Education
Born on December 24, 1970, in Enugu Ukwu, Anambra State, Judith lost her mother at age four and was raised by her maternal aunt.
She attended Port Harcourt Primary School and Federal Government Girls’ College in Port Harcourt. Later, she earned a degree in Urban and Regional Planning from Rivers State University of Science and Technology.
During her NYSC year, she worked with Shell Petroleum Development Company, which helped develop her interest in community development and business.
Career
After university, Judith began her career working with Shell during her National Youth Service. She married Rotimi Amaechi in 1993 and, as her husband took on political roles including governor of Rivers State, she focused on social programs to support women and children.
In 2008, she founded the Empowerment Support Initiative, which provides education, vocational training, healthcare awareness, and economic opportunities for disadvantaged groups in Rivers State.
Her work has helped thousands gain skills and start businesses, and she has used her platform to promote child rights and health initiatives.
Personal Life
Dame Judith is married to Rotimi Amaechi and together they have three sons. She often speaks about the influence of the strong women who raised her and is passionate about giving similar opportunities to others.
Her Christian faith is central to her life, and she leads a prayer group called Emadon in Port Harcourt. The family endured political challenges, including exile during a contentious election period in 2007, but remained united and resilient.
Philanthropy
Dame Judith’s philanthropic approach emphasizes sustainable development rather than handouts. Through ESI, she has implemented programs in vocational skills training, education, women’s economic empowerment, healthcare initiatives, and leadership development.
The organization partners with government agencies, corporate bodies, and international organizations to maximize reach and impact.
Some highlights include:
- Training over 3,000 individuals in various skills
- Supporting indigent children with scholarships and schools
- Empowering women through innovative schemes like the Ladies Cabbie Taxi Scheme
- Promoting maternal and child healthcare
Her efforts have earned her several awards, including the 2021 Woman of the Year award and multiple recognitions from media, civic, and religious groups.
Controversies
Dame Judith Amaechi faced allegations from Nyesom Wike that her NGO, Empowerment Support Initiative (ESI), received ₦4 billion monthly from the Niger Delta Development Commission for women’s programs, with claims of mismanagement.
She denied these accusations, calling them baseless and politically motivated, and challenged Wike to provide evidence.
Judith Amaechi Net Worth
Dame Judith Amaechi’s personal net worth is not publicly disclosed. However, her husband Rotimi Amaechi’s wealth is estimated at about $750 million (₦1.1 trillion) as of 2025, and he has credited much of their family wealth to her business skills.
