From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja
At the commissioning of the newly constructed Nana Berry Orphanage and Children’s Home in Nasarawa State, First Lady Oluremi Tinubu proposed an innovative farming approach when asked by the founder, Aishatu Kwalmi, for land to establish a farm. Mrs. Tinubu tactfully declined the request, emphasising that it might divert from the orphanage’s core mission of providing care and education.
“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,” Mrs. Tinubu explained. She suggested adopting “smart farming” techniques, using buckets to plant crops, which would be space-efficient and educational for the children. “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 advised.
Mrs. Tinubu 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, these children, they still need clothes on their backs, they need food to eat,” she said, thanking the Nasarawa State Government for their support.
The First Lady said the initiative underscored her commitment to improving the lives of vulnerable children across the country.
She expressed her gratitude to God for making the project a reality, highlighting the power of collaboration and empathy.
She recalled learning about the orphanage’s challenges through an interview with its founder, Mrs. Kwalmi, on NTA in early 2023. This encounter prompted her to act, leading to initial support and, eventually, the construction of the new facility.
“I first learned about the plight of the children of Nana Berry Orphanage and Children’s Home while watching an interview… As a mother, I knew I had to act,” she stated.
The First Lady emphasised that the Renewed Hope Initiative was established to enhance the lives of families in Nigeria.
She praised Nasarawa State Governor Abdullahi Sule for donating the land and ensuring the project’s success. She also acknowledged President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to children’s development, aligning with the Renewed Hope Agenda and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Mrs. Tinubu encouraged the caregivers to continue providing love and guidance, urging 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,” she said. “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!”
Governor of Nasarawa State, Abdullahi Sule, reiterated his administration’s commitment to social welfare.
Represented by his deputy, Emmanuel Akabe, he emphasised the importance of the facility, highlighting its role in renewing the hope of the children who reside there. “Today, we bring hope to those who have lost it,” he stated. “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 attendees that the state would not abandon the facility but instead would partner with Nana Berry to maintain the high standards and noble mission of the home.
The facility, which spans an impressive 4,000 square metres, is designed to provide a comprehensive environment for the children’s development.
Sule also praised the efforts of those involved in the project, particularly noting how it has transformed the role of the First Lady’s office. “Your dedication and vision have given a new and impactful face to this office,” Dr. Akabe said, acknowledging the leadership and positive change inspired by the initiative.
Senior Special Assistant to the President on Sustainable Development Goals, Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire, said 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 our children.
Represented by Head, Conditional Grant Scheme OSSAP-SDGs, Ifeyinwa Ukaegbu, she said with a capacity for 236 children, 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 SDGs implementation in Nigeria, complementing initiatives like Mother and Child Hospitals and skill acquisition centres,” she said.