The First Lady, Mrs. Oluremi Tinubu, has reiterated President Bola Tinubu’s dedication to the well-being and development of all children, irrespective of their background. She made this declaration in Nasarawa State on Saturday during the unveiling of the newly established Nana Berry Orphanage and Children’s Home.
In her remarks, the First Lady emphasized that the project aligns with President Tinubu’s vision, which recognizes children as crucial pillars for national development. “This inauguration is a reflection of the power of collaboration and our unwavering commitment to the welfare of the most vulnerable children in society,” she stated.
Mrs. Tinubu shared that she first became aware of the challenges faced by the children at Nana Berry Orphanage and Children’s Home after an interview with its founder, Mrs. Aishatu Kwalmi, aired on NTA in early 2023. “At that time, we were still in the early stages of establishing the Renewed Hope Initiative. However, I immediately instructed some of my team members to visit the orphanage and assess the situation,” she said.
The report revealed the harsh conditions in which over 200 children were living, and as a mother, Mrs. Tinubu knew immediate action was needed. “The very essence of the Renewed Hope Initiative was to improve the lives of families across Nigeria. Our initial response was to provide essential food items and supplies,” she explained.
She further mentioned that in December 2023, about 70 children from the orphanage were invited to the first State House Christmas Party. “That experience inspired us to extend invitations to children from orphanages across the Federal Capital Territory for the 2024 Christmas Party,” she said.
The First Lady also acknowledged that a more sustainable intervention was required to ensure these children had a safe, comfortable, and nurturing environment. “Today, it warms my heart to see that vision come to fruition,” she said.
She urged the caregivers at the home to continue providing the children with love, care, and guidance. However, she declined the founder’s request for a piece of land to support the orphanage’s farming initiatives. “I would not advise that, as it could divert your focus from the orphanage’s core mission. Instead, I encourage you to explore smart farming techniques, such as using buckets and old tires to grow crops, as the land here is sufficient,” she advised.
Mrs. Tinubu also commended the Nasarawa State Government for donating the land and ensuring the provision of the Certificate of Occupancy.
Governor Abdullahi Sule of Nasarawa State, represented by his Deputy, Dr. Emmanuel-Agbadu Akabe, lauded the First Lady and the Renewed Hope Initiative for their dedication to the welfare of vulnerable individuals. “We are committed to this noble cause, which is why we provided the land free of charge for this wonderful facility. We will continue to collaborate to uphold the orphanage’s standards and principles, offering further support,” he assured.
Princess Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Sustainable Development Goals, revealed that her office was responsible for the construction of the orphanage. Represented by Dr. Ifeyinwa Ukaegbu, Head of the Conditional Grant Scheme, she highlighted that the building is a testament to President Tinubu’s unwavering commitment to the Renewed Hope Agenda, especially for vulnerable children.
“This facility can accommodate 118 girls and 118 boys in two hostel blocks, with a dormitory, a multipurpose hall, twin blocks of six classrooms, a matron’s office, and staff quarters. It is designed to provide a safe, nurturing, and empowering environment for learning and holistic development,” she concluded.