By BANNERNEWS Reporter
A former Special Adviser to ex-Governor Ben Ayade, Mr. Oscar Ofuka, has urged governments at all levels to place greater emphasis on the welfare of vulnerable children in orphanages and other care homes.
Ofuka said sustained care and support for vulnerable children would help them develop their innate abilities and compete favourably with their peers in society.
He spoke in Calabar during a visit to the Uwanse Orphanage Home, where he marked his 64th birthday with the children and caregivers.
According to him, many children in welfare homes possess enormous leadership potential that can only be realised through proper nurturing and support.
“I want to use this opportunity to appeal to governments at all levels to always give priority attention to those who are not sure where their next meal will come from,” he said.
Explaining why he chose to celebrate at the orphanage, Ofuka said the visit was inspired by compassion for children who lack parental care.
“The choice of this home is because I know there are children here without parents who need love and support. God has raised people to take care of them, but there is still need for more attention,” he stated.
Describing the occasion as emotional and special, Ofuka said thoughts of the children dominated his mind from the moment he woke up on his birthday.
“Today’s event is unique to me because I woke up thinking about the children. I have them at heart,” he added.
He commended the caregivers for maintaining a clean and serene environment, noting that the children appeared properly cared for.
“I want to thank all those taking care of this place because the environment is beautiful and the children are well cared for,” he said, adding that he was willing to commit his resources towards supporting their needs.
Ofuka also praised Governor Bassey Otu and former Governor Ben Ayade for their support for vulnerable persons in society.
Reflecting on his time in government under Ayade, Ofuka highlighted his role in the state’s cocoa development initiative, including reforms in the sector, land recovery efforts, and the establishment of plantations such as the CRBC model farm and the 1,800-hectare plantation in Akim Osowa.
He also stressed the importance of respect for the rule of law, warning that disobedience to court judgments could lead to political instability and decay.
Concluding, Ofuka said the children deserve continued support and encouragement to become future leaders.
“Most of these children are future great men and women with enormous potential. If properly nurtured, they will become leaders of tomorrow. We must do everything possible to give them hope and cherish them like our own children,” he said.
The event was attended by officials of the Ministry of Social Welfare and Social Development, represented by the State Director, Mrs. Obeten Kokomo David.
