At just 18 and 20 years old, Chiamanda and Chiamaka Ononiwu — daughters of renowned Nigerian surgeon Dr. Charles Ononiwu — are capturing hearts and inspiring minds across the globe with the launch of their debut inspirational books, Do Not Be Afraid and Waterfalls.

 

Their journey began not in a publishing house, but in the solitude of their own reflections during one of the world’s most uncertain times — the COVID-19 pandemic. While much of the globe was gripped by fear and isolation, the then 13- and 15-year-old sisters turned to writing as a lifeline — a means to process their emotions, strengthen their faith, and reach out with messages of comfort and resilience.

 

Today, what started as private journals has blossomed into two published works that serve as beacons of light for readers searching for hope amid adversity.

Eighteen-year-old Chiamanda Ononiwu, a passionate Electrical Engineering student and former Valedictorian of Great Blessings School, authored Do Not Be Afraid. The book delves into the emotional struggles of young people and offers biblically-rooted encouragement.

 

“Do Not Be Afraid is especially for youth navigating difficult times,” Chiamanda explained. “No matter how hard life gets, you can always find strength and direction in God’s word.”

 

Her sister, Chiamaka Ononiwu, 20, is a final-year medical student at Babcock University. Her book, Waterfalls, is a deeply spiritual reflection on God’s presence in the midst of life’s chaos.

 

“Waterfalls reminds readers that God is always watching over His people. He doesn’t bring fear — He brings peace, hope, and love,” she said. “I want readers to find comfort and assurance in that truth.”

 

For Chiamaka, writing is more than a creative outlet — it’s a calling.

 

“It all started with the idea of inclusion, inspired by real human experiences,” she noted. “We’ve spoken with people who have gone through painful moments, and their stories helped shape what I write today.”

The official book launch and signing ceremony took place on Wednesday in Abuja and was attended by family, friends, educators, clergy, and well-wishers. It was a joyful celebration of faith, creativity, and youthful brilliance — a moment that marked the beginning of what promises to be a long and impactful literary journey.

 

Despite the pressures of their demanding academic paths, the Ononiwu sisters have managed to write and publish works that speak to global audiences. Their message? Hope is real, and faith is powerful.

 

“Our biggest hope is that these books will reach people who need to know that God is real, that He’s always with them, and that through Him, anything is possible,” said Chiamaka.

Also present at the event was their father, Dr. Charles Ononiwu, a highly respected surgeon and advocate for youth development. Speaking with pride, he shared how the writing journey began from quiet conversations at home.

 

“Chiamanda came to me and said she wanted to speak to her peers, to share how she had been comforted and how others could find strength too,” he recalled. “As a father, my role was to guide and support. I believe every child has a gift. Our duty as parents is to help them discover and nurture it.”

 

Moved by their determination and the depth of their messages, Dr. Ononiwu personally funded the publication of both books, seeing it as an investment not only in his daughters but in the lives they hope to touch.

 

“You have something the world needs,” he told them. “You can make a real impact.”

 

Dr. Ononiwu encouraged other parents to support their children’s dreams — especially in creative endeavors — emphasizing that talent exists in every child.

 

“No one is without talent. It’s just a matter of looking inward, discovering that gift, and sharing it with the world,” he said.

With Do Not Be Afraid and Waterfalls, Chiamanda and Chiamaka have not only published books — they’ve launched a movement grounded in faith, resilience, and purpose. Their mission is simple but powerful: to inspire, to uplift, and to remind the world that even in the darkest moments, God’s light never fades.

 

Two sisters, one mission — and a message the world is ready to hear.