History of the Association for the Poorest of the Poor

The Association for the Poorest of the Poor is a voluntary organization made up of men and women of goodwill who share a strong desire to perform charitable acts and support the mission of care for the destitute.

The Association was founded on the vision of caring for the destitute, inspired by the remarkable social work of Sr. Oresoa Selo-Ojeme. Its story began with individuals who admired and supported Sr. Oresoa’s efforts to provide care for society’s most vulnerable groups, as highlighted in Anawim News Vol. 1, No. 1, Page 8 (1995).

The Growth of the Mission

Sr. Oresoa’s ministry of caring for the marginalized steadily expanded, drawing participation from both Muslim and Christian youths. However, challenges arose when she faced criticism from some Muslims who suspected her of converting young boys and girls, known as Almajiris, to her faith.

“Mama only teaches us to be good children, not to steal, lie, or use drugs. She teaches us cleanliness, reading, and writing, and often provides us with food and medical care.”

Response from the children

With the encouragement of John Cardinal Onaiyekan, the then Archbishop of Abuja, Sr. Oresoa worked toward formalizing her efforts by registering the mission as a Non-Governmental Organization (NGO). She also gathered a supportive group of like-minded individuals to assist in caring for the needy. This group became the foundation of the Association for the Poorest of the Poor, a name proposed by Cardinal Onaiyekan during one of their meetings.

The First Meeting of the Association

The Association for the Poorest of the Poor held its inaugural meeting on 20 April 1995, at the Archbishop’s residence. The eight attendees were:

  1. Mr. O.A. Edache
  2. Engr. Emmanuel Ovbiebo
  3. Sr. Oresoa Selo-Ojeme
  4. Mrs. A.R. Uganden
  5. Mrs. Anne Edache
  6. James Agbonhese, Esq.
  7. Chief Sir I.I. Nomhwangie (KSJ, KSS)
  8. Miss Jummai Kwanashie

Excused were Msgr. Kenneth Eyang and Mrs. Afretei. The meeting, chaired by Sr. Oresoa, covered key highlights, including:

  • Sr. Oresoa’s introduction and her mission’s objectives
  • The progress of her work and its alignment with the Catholic Archdiocese of Abuja
  • Contributions and advice from members
  • A proposed programme plan for future projects

Expansion of Membership and Progress

A follow-up meeting was held on 18 May 1995, at the Bishop’s House, with an expanded group of attendees. Highlights included updates on Sr. Oresoa’s fundraising efforts in Enugu and Lagos, reports on the ongoing work at the Gwagwalada accommodation, and discussions about the Archbishop’s guidance, particularly on renaming the association.

A third meeting on 13 July 1995 was notable for the personal attendance of Archbishop John Cardinal Onaiyekan. Key decisions from the meeting included confirmation that the project would remain under the Catholic Archdiocese, a review of the constitution, and selection of the Board of Trustees.

Board of Trustees

  1. Chief Sir I.I. Nomhwangie, Chairman (now deceased)
  2. Ms. Jummai A. Kwanashie
  3. Engr. Emmanuel Ovbiebo
  4. Mrs. A.R. Uganden
  5. Barr. James Agbonhese
  6. Sr. Oresoa Selo-Ojeme

On 24 July 1996, the Association was officially registered by the Corporate Affairs Commission in Abuja, solidifying its status as a legal entity.

Expansion to Kaduna Archdiocese

In 2005, the Association expanded its work beyond Abuja to the Kaduna Archdiocese. Under the leadership of Archbishop Most Rev. Dr. Peter Y. Jatau, the apostolate was accepted as a pious association of the Catholic Church. A community house was constructed in Kasuwan Magani, Kaduna, and officially opened on 20 April 2006.

The pioneer officials of the Kaduna branch were:

  • President: Mrs. Lucy Ibrahim
  • Vice President: Mr. Fidelis Ikhile
  • Secretary: Mrs. Agnes Mahama
  • Financial Secretary: Mrs. Theresa Didam
  • PRO: Mr. Isaac Tanko

By 2005, the number of associate members had grown significantly, reaching over 112 individuals across Abuja, Kaduna, Minna, Lagos, and other locations.

Legacy and Ongoing Efforts

The Association for the Poorest of the Poor has become a beacon of hope, continually expanding its outreach to provide shelter, education, healthcare, and necessities to the destitute. It continues to inspire goodwill and charitable acts across Nigeria and beyond through collaborative efforts.

Inquiry

For membership inquiries or ways to support the Association for the Poorest of the Poor, please contact Anawim Homes through the official contact page.