Foundation Empowers Underserved Population in New Initiative

The Obijackson Foundation joined forces with the Akwa Ibom State Command  of the Nigerian Correctional Service to pioneer an innovative initiative aimed at rehabilitating and empowering inmates. 

Established in 2010, the foundation tackles the challenges of poor literacy, nutrition and healthcare in Eastern Nigeria, particularly in the rural areas and underserved communities.

The event witnessed the participation of key dignitaries, including the Governor of Akwa Ibom State, represented by the Commissioner of Special Duties and Ibom Deep Seaport, Dr. Bassey Okon, as well as service chiefs and representatives from various agencies.

Also in attendance were founder of Obijackson Foundation Dr. Ernest  Azudialu Obiejesi, Member Board of Trustees Mrs. Nnenna-Obiejesi and the Obijackson Foundation Staff led by it’s Executive Director, Pamela Egbo with students of the Gonzaga Jesuit Academy, Okija, Anambra State, Nigeria. 

The groundbreaking initiative focused on training inmates with minor offenses in various skills, obtaining trade test certifications for them, covering their fines, and providing starter packs and cash sums to establish their own businesses. This comprehensive approach aims not only to equip individuals with practical skills but also to address the root causes of criminal behavior.

Speaking, the foundation expressed it belief in the power of reintegration into society, and by investing in the rehabilitation and empowerment of these individuals, it aims to reduce the likelihood of re-offending, ultimately improving the lives of the beneficiaries and their families.

As part of the initiative, the Obijackson Foundation established a mini ICT Lab at the National Open University Study Center, equipped with computers, a printer, a generator set, and internet connectivity. This not only provides inmates with digital skills but also opens doors to higher education.

At the event, Executive Director of the Foundation, Pamela Egbo emphasized the pivotal role of partnerships in creating a meaningful impact on society, calling on all stakeholders to contribute to transformative change. 

 Representative of the governor and . controller of the Akwa Ibom State Command expressed their appreciation for the foundation’s efforts and pledged ongoing support for the capacity building of inmates.

The foundation distributed several startup packs, including barbing salons, laundry machines, vulcanizing and welding machines, along with a startup capital of N150,000 to each released inmate. This tangible support aims to facilitate the reintegration of these individuals into society as productive members.

Interview sessions with both guests and empowered inmates provided a platform for personal stories and reflections, further humanizing the rehabilitation process. These narratives underscored the idea that with the right opportunities and support, individuals can overcome their pasts and contribute meaningfully to society.

Beyond the correctional facility initiative, the Obijackson Foundation is actively involved in various social impact programs, including Health, Education, Enterprise, Nutrition, and Welfare Partners. 

Under the Welfare Partners program, the foundation supports Adaeze’s Place in Ihiala, Anambra State, and the Ibadan Mercy Home in partnership with the Oyo State Ministry of Women Affairs & Social Welfare. These initiatives provide care for abused and less privileged children, offering scholarships, healthcare, and general well-being support.

In the Enterprise program, the Obijackson Farm has become a successful venture, supporting the charitable works of the foundation and creating jobs for unemployed youth in Okija. The farm, which started with crop cultivation, expanded to include livestock farming, contributing to employment creation and transforming the agricultural and nutrition landscape in Anambra and beyond.

The Nutrition program includes the Pantry initiative, providing raw food items to thousands of poor people in Anambra and its environs. Additionally, the Soup Kitchens program offers hot meals to over 6,000 people monthly, benefiting correctional institutes and the less privileged.

Under the Health program, the Obijackson Women and Children Hospital, in partnership with UNICEF, focuses on maternal and pediatric care, health insurance, eye screening programs, and health education in schools. The hospital has played a crucial role in reducing child and maternal mortalities through subsidized healthcare for patients from poor families.

For the Education program, the Gonzaga Jesuit Academy is sponsored by the Obijackson Foundation, ensuring that poor indigenes of Okija have access to quality basic education. Recognizing education as a fundamental human right, the foundation aims to make quality education accessible to the financially challenged.

“One of our biggest accomplishments to date is the Jesuit Academy in Okija,” according to Pamela Egbo, Executive Director of The Obijackson Foundation. “We are very intentional in making sure that the citizens of Okija get the opportunity to access quality basic education. Through a comprehensive screening process, we sponsor 40 indigene kids from Okija annually into primary school. Many of these children cannot read or write fluently or speak English when they start, and it is amazing to see tremendous progress at the end of their first academic year. We started 3 years ago, we now have 120 kids (Primary 1-3) and we add a class every year.”

The impacts of the Obijackson Foundation can be attributed to the vision and versatility of Dr. Ernest Azudialu Obiejesi, the founder and chairman. His commitment to philanthropy is reflected in the diverse undertakings of the foundation, contributing to positive change in communities.

As the Obijackson Foundation continues to empower communities and transform lives, its multifaceted approach underscores a commitment to sustainable change and a more inclusive and empowered society and is open to strategic partners with shared vision to making lasting impact at the grassroot in achieving some of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) objectives.