…Commissions State-of-the-Art Orphanage and Children’s Home in Nasarawa State
First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has emphasized the well-being of all children, regardless of their background, as a crucial pillar of national development under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
She stated this while inaugurating a 336-bed space home for Nana Berry Orphanage and Children’s Home at New Nyanya in Nasarawa State.
The first lady noted that the initiative underscores her commitment to improving the lives of vulnerable children across the country.
“I first learned about the plight of the children at Nana Berry Orphanage and Children’s Home while watching an interview with the founder on NTA early in 2023. As a mother, I knew I had to act.”
She encouraged the caregivers at the home to continue providing love and guidance and urged the children to embrace opportunities and dream big.
“You are special, you are loved, and you have a bright future ahead of you. This home is a stepping stone towards your dreams.
“I encourage you to learn, grow, and become the best version of yourselves. Also, learn to cultivate the habit of compassion. You are all contributors to what this nation can become. The sky is your limit—so dream big!”
She also highlighted the importance of keeping the orphanage focused on its core mission while ensuring the children’s needs are met.
“We pray that everyone seated here remembers that these children still need clothes on their backs and food to eat.”
During the commissioning of the newly constructed Nana Berry Orphanage and Children’s Home, Senator Tinubu proposed an innovative farming approach when the founder, Aishatu Kwalmi, requested land to establish a farm.
“I said no. This place is big enough—very big—and I want this to be public because when interest is divided, the children might suffer.”
She suggested adopting smart farming techniques, using buckets to plant crops, which would be space-efficient and educational for the children. She also promised to send experts to teach the children these techniques.
“Nowadays, we have something called smart gardening. You can grow in your bucket… You can grow yams in buckets, you can grow potatoes in buckets.”
She acknowledged President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to children’s development, aligning with the Renewed Hope Agenda and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). She also thanked Nasarawa State Governor Abdullahi Sule for donating the land and ensuring the project’s success.
Governor Abdullahi Sule, represented by his deputy, Emmanuel Akabe, reiterated his administration’s commitment to social welfare and emphasized the importance of the facility in renewing hope for the children who reside there.
“Today, we bring hope to those who have lost it. The dreams of these children are being revitalized, and as a state, we are committed to ensuring that this facility continues to thrive and serve its purpose.”
The governor reassured that the state would not abandon the facility but would partner with Nana Berry to maintain the home’s high standards and noble mission.
Senior Special Assistant to the President on Sustainable Development Goals, Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire, stated that the Nana Berry Orphanage Home, built and furnished by her office, reflects the administration’s commitment to the Renewed Hope Agenda, ensuring no one is left behind, especially children. She also emphasized the power of collaborations and partnerships.
Represented by Ifeyinwa Ukaegbu, head of the Conditional Grant Scheme OSSAP-SDGs, she noted that the facility provides a safe environment for learning and holistic development, supporting SDG Goal 4: Quality Education, and SDG Goal 5: Gender Equality.
“It is part of our broader strategy to accelerate SDG implementation in Nigeria, complementing initiatives like Mother and Child Hospitals and skill acquisition centers.”
The facility, which sits on an expanse of 4,000 square meters, includes a 100-bed boys’ hostel, a 100-bed girls’ hostel, staff quarters, classrooms, sickbays, two playgrounds, and other amenities.
