The orphanage project, called Oyiza-Salem Divine Orphanage Home, was commissioned last Saturday in the Etahi Community, Okene Local Government Area of Kogi State.

Nadia Zakaria, a 16-year-old Nigerian girl and daughter of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, has built and handed over a new orphanage home in Kogi State. This remarkable youngster motivated the project by a desire to support children who lack the opportunities she enjoys.

The Oyiza-Salem Divine Orphanage Home provides shelter and care for 15 children in need, marking a significant milestone in the community. Nadia, who just turned 16, said the idea for the project began when she was 15. She wanted to do something for children who, through no fault of theirs, don't get the opportunities many of us take for granted.

In a statement released in Abuja on Sunday by Senator Natasha's media aide, Sam Idoko, Nadia said,

My name is Nadia Zakaria, I'm 16 years old, and today is a very emotional day for me. About a year ago, this was just an idea. I wanted to do something for children who, through no fault of theirs, don't get the opportunities many of us take for granted.

Raising funds for the project was challenging, as Nadia had to rely on family members, friends, and members of the wider community for support. She said,

At 15, I had never done anything like this. But I decided to try. With help from family, friends, and even strangers, we raised enough to build the house and furnish every room.

Addressing the children who are the direct beneficiaries of the project, Nadia said:

I hope you know you are loved. You matter, and your dreams matter. May this be a place where you feel safe, where you laugh, and where you grow.

Senator Natasha told the gathering that she did not finance the project, saying her daughter raised the money herself.

My daughter raised the money for this building herself. I did not contribute one kobo. Nadia was already planning another project — a care home for pregnant women in Kogi Central.

The founder of the orphanage, Pastor Kisito Adomu Zuberu, fought back tears while recounting the condition of the children before the project was completed. He said,

When they came last year, the children were sleeping on the ground. Today Miss Nadia has given us a fully equipped mansion.

The home has continued to train and support the children despite limited resources. Two are in university now. One is at the School of Nursing in Obangede. Another graduated from the University of Abuja. One is at Kwara State University, and one is waiting for NYSC. Eight are in primary school. Two are learning trades — one tailoring, the other another skill.

The children and their families expressed gratitude to Nadia and Senator Natasha, describing their act as an extraordinary display of love. They said the new building provided hope, security, dignity, and a home they can be proud of.

Many participants at the event described the project as one of the most inspiring youth-led initiatives Kogi State has witnessed in recent years.