By Sarafina Christopher
The Native, a cultural coalition, says it is committed to supporting the welfare and development of children in care homes through monthly welfare initiatives and donations.
Mr Jethro Annum, President of the Nigerian Youth Congress (NYC), made this pledge when he led a delegation from The Native on a visit to Riches Home for Orphans and Vulnerable Children Kurudu, Abuja, on Saturday.
Annum led the delegation on behalf of Olalekan Smart, leader of The Native, to mark one year in memory of his mother, the late Mrs Christiana Osunlalu.
Annum praised the resilience of the children and encouraged them to remain focused in spite of the challenges they faced.
“We observed that these young ones, in spite of not knowing their parents, have shown remarkable resilience and talent.
“That is why we are here today, to extend love, care and encouragement in remembrance of our dear mother.
“The Native will continue to support the welfare and development of children in care through monthly welfare initiatives and donations.’’
He said that the current shelter at the home was not conducive and revealed plans to construct a befitting hall for the children.
In his response, Rev. Emmanuel Alaje, co-founder of Riches Home for Orphans and Vulnerable Children, commended The Native for the initiative and highlighted challenges faced by orphanages.
“Today’s visit through this organisation, The Native, is a work on development.
“They have done a noble thing for giving back to the society in memory of one of their members, a mother, who during her lifetime was said to have given her best to advance the welfare of humanity; we appreciate them for coming.
“There are several impediments, challenges uncountable, especially the issue of finance.
“You know, if money is not made available, necessary projects cannot continue; the welfare of the children will have question marks; their education, their feeding all of these bow down to availability of funds.’’
Alaje called on the government to give ear to the cry of operators of care homes and orphanages in Nigeria.
“As I speak with you now, there is no help from the government, either the federal, state or local.
“We exist by the grace of God, people of goodwill like you have come today,’’ he said.
During the visit, The Native delegation interacted with the children, donated food items and held a prayer session in memory of Osunlalu. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Chijioke Okoronkwo
