About Yekope
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A Message from Dr. Stephen Samuel
My wife and I have always shared this dream of creating a loving, family environment for the orphaned children in our home town of Lokoja, Nigeria. Growing up there we saw the growth of orphans due to a range of socioeconomic issues. Children are sacred and deserve to be protected. The children of Yekope did not choose their circumstances, but God has a plan for each one. We are called to help the most vulnerable among us (James 1:27), just as Jesus did. Nothing brings us more joy than when one of our children is welcomed into a new home and their eyes light up with a sense of belonging.
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Income disparity in Nigeria is severe. Many women choose to surrender children because they are unable to meet their basic needs. Lack of access to adequate pre and postnatal care contributes to the high maternal mortality rate in the region. War and internal conflict, stigma, natural disasters, and lack of access to adequate mental healthcare can also leave a child without their biological family to care for them. Many children come to Yekope having experienced a great deal of trauma in their first few years of life. A stable environment, compassionate caregivers, and ongoing mental and physical healthcare are key to their healing. Our dedicated staff are our greatest asset and their passion is noble.
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The Kogi State Ministry of Women’s Affairs and Social Development works for the protection and support of women and children in Lokoja. Yekope works directly with this local branch of government to admit and, eventually, rehome every child. However, with no government funding available to assist the Ministry’s partner organizations like Yekope, we rely on the generosity of private donors. We appreciate those who give in any capacity. YOU allow Yekope to continue to bring hope to our community.
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We are eternally grateful for the people who have looked beyond themselves to support this mission. We welcome you with open arms to the Yekope Family.
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Dr. Stephen Samuel
Founder and President of Yekope International Ministries
Development
Coordinator
"Family should be your safe place, and I see Yekope as a family ogranization. My goal on the Yekope team is to help strengthen the family"
Our Leadership
United States
Board of Directors
Rev. Randy Wormdahl
Treasurer
Mrs. Rachel Oladosu
Trustee
Rev. Steven Boyle
Board Member
Dr. Nash Pwol
Board Member
Mrs. Bertie Wormdahl
Secretary
Dr. Isaac Oladosu
Trustee
Mrs. Emily Waniuk
Central Coast Representative
Pr. Tola Lakeru
Board Member
Rev. Dr. Bola Arowolo
Board Member
Mrs. Esther Are
Board Member
Mr. Ted Waniuk
Central Coast Representative
Dr. Samuel Abafi
Board Member
Nigerian board
Board of Directors
Engr. Samuel O. Akaiku
Chairman
Mrs. Comfort Kato
Board Member
Mr. Jethro Agbange
Board Member
Rev. David Abayomi
Treasurer
Mr. Moses Agaji
Board Member
Engr. Olufemi Arosanyin
Board Member
Rev. Dr. Samson A Esenyi
Secretary
Rev. Alexander Abafi
Board Member
Mr. Johnson Tuzom
Board Member
Pst. Joseph Olu
Board Member
Our Team
Yekope Caregivers are compassionate in providing care to our children. Yekope staffs its Kitchen, Classroom, Orphanage, and Sanitation staff who are tasked with the upkeep and facilities maintenance.
A Message from the Head Matron:
"My role, impact, and contribution to the kids is to keep them safe, cared for, and loved so that each child knows they’re valued"
-Head Matron Clara.
