A 16-year-old Nigerian girl, Nadia Zakaria, has attracted widespread commendation after building, furnishing and handing over a fully equipped orphanage home to vulnerable children in Okene, Kogi State.
Nadia, the daughter of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central in the National Assembly, reportedly began the initiative at the age of 15, driven by her desire to improve the lives of children who lack access to opportunities available to others.
The facility, located in Etahi Community, Okene Local Government Area, was officially handed over to the Oyiza-Salem Divine Orphanage Home at a ceremony attended by community leaders, religious figures and residents.
According to a statement from Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s media office, Nadia personally raised funds for the project through donations from family members, friends and other members of the public.
The statement added that the teenager financed the construction and furnishing of the facility without financial support from her mother.
Speaking during the handover ceremony, Nadia said the project began as an idea inspired by her desire to make a meaningful difference in the lives of vulnerable children.
She explained that she wanted to provide the children with a safe and comfortable environment where they could have access to opportunities and support needed to build better futures.
Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, who witnessed the handover, emphasised that the initiative was conceived, driven and funded by her daughter.
The senator’s remarks highlighted Nadia’s personal commitment to the project and her determination to see it completed despite her young age.
The completed facility, which has been furnished and equipped for the children, is expected to provide a more conducive environment for the beneficiaries of the Oyiza-Salem Divine Orphanage Home.
Nadia’s initiative has continued to attract commendation, with many describing the project as an inspiring example of youth-led philanthropy, compassion and community service.
