Restoring Hope: Supporting a Mother in Crisis in Abuja

Volunteer: Jonathan Bawa
Location: Abuja
Date: December 8, 2025

Sometimes, life places us in moments where compassion and presence can make all the difference. For Jonathan Bawa, an Empowered Servant in Abuja, such a moment arrived unexpectedly while he was on the road.

While fixing a minor car fault, a woman named Mrs. Edith Ogbonna approached him, asking for help to feed her children. Moved by compassion, Jonathan gave her ₦1,500 from his personal funds, knowing he could not leave her in need. Without a contact number, he provided his complementary card, but it took several attempts over a few days to reconnect with her.

When they finally met, Mrs. Ogbonna shared her heartbreaking story. She is a mother who has lost 9 of her 12 children to mysterious illnesses before they reached three years old. These repeated losses drained her family’s financial resources and deeply affected her mental health. On top of this, she and her family had to relocate due to threats and malevolent acts from envious neighbors.

Despite these trials, Mrs. Ogbonna remained a devoted child of God and an evangelist. Jonathan encouraged her to keep faith, drawing inspiration from the story of Job, and reminded her of the power and authority in the name of Jesus.

Moved by her perseverance and faith, Jonathan provided an additional ₦10,000 from ESGI support funds, helping to meet her immediate needs and offer hope. She was overwhelmed with gratitude, asking that God bless Jonathan and his family, and Jonathan reminded her to return all glory to God.

A Reflection

This encounter exemplifies the heart of the Empowered Servants Program:

Responding to urgent needs with love and practical support. Offering encouragement and prayer to restore hope. Walking alongside individuals during their most challenging times.

Even in the most difficult circumstances, a small act of compassion can bring light, hope, and renewed faith. ESGI exists to ensure that no one faces hardship alone.