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From Charity Nwakaudu, Abuja
A wave of compassion swept through the Abuja Children’s Home in Karu as One Meal a Day for the Children Initiative, in partnership with IBI Foundation and other supporters, brought food items, gifts and mentorship to dozens of orphans and vulnerable children at the facility.
The outreach, which drew administrators, NGO leaders, legal practitioners and volunteers, focused not only on feeding the children but also on restoring their sense of belonging in a society struggling with rising poverty and abandonment cases.
Speaking during the visit, Quincy Patrick, Administrator of the Abuja Children’s Home, described the initiative as a “huge contribution to society,” noting that food remains a fundamental right of every Nigerian child.
“We are happy and excited because this is not just about our children here in Karu but for every Nigerian child. If organizations are committing to giving one meal a day, it will go a long way in improving children’s wellness and development,” she said.
Patrick, while acknowledging the biting economic situation, commended well-meaning Nigerians who continue to support the home, adding that the facility also extends help to other less-privileged homes.
On his part, Lt. Commander Ibrahim Baba Inna (Rtd.), CEO of IBI Foundation, said the initiative goes beyond providing food.
“It is about feeding their soul with love, respect and responsibility. We are here to tell these children that Nigeria has not abandoned them,” he said.
He noted that NGOs nationwide are under pressure, stressing that they need support from government, private individuals and institutions to sustain their humanitarian work.
“NGOs know where the vulnerable people are. But they cannot do it alone. This is why we are partnering with One Meal a Day to give these children joy and hope,” he added.
Ibrahim, who visited the home last in 2019, praised the management for maintaining a cheerful environment despite limited resources. He also linked the rising number of orphans to societal issues including insecurity, broken marriages and lack of tolerance among families.
At the event, Chika Ikem Mwemena, a long-time friend of the initiative’s founder, expressed joy seeing her friend’s passion come to life.
“In a country where many people are hungry, seeing someone who not only can help but is willing to help is worth celebrating,” she said.
For Barrister Prudencia Ibope, a member of the initiative, the legal framework for child protection exists but enforcement remains weak.
“The laws are there, but implementation is the problem. Government must enforce the laws that protect children and simplify the adoption process. Many families want to adopt but are frustrated by bottlenecks,” she said.
Founder and CEO of the initiative, Mrs. Ijeoma Omeh Nwokpoku narrated how her passion began over a decade ago after visiting a distressed children’s centre in Ethiopia.
“Child malnutrition is a pandemic. I may not solve all the problems, but in my small way I want to put smiles on the faces of these children,” she said, beaming with visible emotion.
Nwokpoku revealed that the foundation presently runs solely on personal funds, family and friends’ support, but is open to partnerships and sponsorships.
“My joy comes from seeing others happy. It is my life’s calling,” she added.
