The Obijackson Foundation, a non-profit organisation committed to enhancing the lives of the underprivileged in low-income communities, is making significant strides in community empowerment.
Established in 2010, The ObiJackson Foundation tackles the challenges of poor literacy, nutrition and healthcare in Eastern Nigeria, particularly in the rural areas and underserved communities.
It’s programmes allow it to make real and measurable changes in Eastern Nigeria and beyond. We are intentional in bringing the marginalised back into the community and do our part in building up socio-economic inclusion and transforming the communities around us.
With a focus on impacting the lives of the underserved, the foundation’s recent collaboration with the Akwa Ibom State Command of the Nigerian Correctional Service exemplifies its dedication to transforming lives.
The foundation recently joined forces with the Akwa Ibom State Command to pioneer an innovative initiative aimed at rehabilitating and empowering inmates. 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.
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.
The foundation believes 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, generator set, and internet connectivity. This not only provides inmates with digital skills but also opens doors to higher education.
Executive Director, Obijackson Foundation, Pamela Egbo, emphasised the pivotal role of partnerships in creating a meaningful impact on society, calling on all stakeholders to contribute to transformative change.
The Governor’s representative and the 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 equipments, laundry machines, vulcanising 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.
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 supported 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 subsidised 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. Recognising education as a fundamental human right, the foundation aims to make quality education accessible to the financially challenged.
