Orphans’ Tears of Joy at Jos Orphanage Renovation Commissioning
In an emotional ceremony that brought dignitaries to tears, the newly renovated Jesus Only Friend International Orphanage Home (JOFIN) in Jos, Nigeria, was commissioned. The transformation, orchestrated by philanthropist Dr. Stanley Uzochukwu through his Stanley Uzochukwu Foundation (SUF), has brought hope and happiness to the lives of dozens of orphaned and underprivileged children.
The event, held on Wednesday, was attended by Nigeria’s Governor of Plateau State, Caleb Mutfwang, and former Sierra Leonean President, Ernest Bai Koroma. The highlight of the day was a heartfelt speech delivered by 16-year-old orphan, Mercy Luka, who thanked Dr. Uzochukwu on behalf of her peers.
Mercy recounted the dismal conditions the orphanage faced just a few months ago—leaking roofs, broken facilities, and hunger. “We would go to bed hungry, praying to God for help,” she said, choking back tears. UNO
Then everything changed. Mrs. Angela Madaki, Chief Operations Officer of Stanel Group, visited the orphanage, saw their plight, and took action. She brought their story to Dr. Uzochukwu, who immediately responded with a week-long food drive and a promise to rebuild the facility—a promise he kept in less than a year.
Today, the orphanage boasts clean water thanks to a solar-powered borehole, a sustainable feeding program, rebuilt toilets, a fully equipped computer room, and furnished living spaces. The children’s educational dreams are also becoming a reality, with their WAEC and JAMB fees fully paid by SUF.
Mercy’s voice trembled as she expressed her gratitude: “Dr. Stanley Uzochukwu, you’ve shown us that even in Jos, souls can rise to help others. May your birthday be a memorial of the lives you’ve touched.”
Governor Mutfwang and former President Koroma, visibly moved, commended Dr. Uzochukwu’s humanitarian gestures. They urged other influential Nigerians to follow his example and implored the children to seize the opportunities presented to them.
In response, Dr. Uzochukwu thanked the dignitaries for attending and shared that he would donate his personal residence for use as an orphanage. He also directed that sections of JOFIN be moved to his Rayfield residence.
The event concluded with the presentation of laptops to exceptional SSCE graduands and a bumper supply of food items worth hundreds of millions of Naira.
This incredible turnaround is a testament to the power of compassion and commitment to community. Dr. Uzochukwu’s impact on the lives of these children serves as a beacon of hope for others in similar situations.
