Choosing Hope Over Despair: Standing With a Young Mother in Osogbo

Volunteer: Faith Oluwaseun Mark
Location: Osogbo, Osun State
Date: January 11, 2026

Life can sometimes place overwhelming burdens on individuals who have little support and few options. This was the reality for Sister Ola, a young factory worker in Osogbo, whose story reflects both deep struggle and renewed hope through compassionate intervention.

Sister Ola became pregnant by a colleague who had travelled from Ghana to work in the same factory. When she discovered the pregnancy, fear gripped her heart. Life was already difficult, and she lacked the support needed to raise a child. At one point, she even considered terminating the pregnancy. However, the man encouraged her not to abort the baby and promised to take responsibility.

Throughout the pregnancy, he remained involved and supportive, and in September of the previous year, Sister Ola delivered a healthy baby girl. Sadly, shortly after the delivery, the man suddenly stopped communicating. Despite repeated attempts to reach him, Sister Ola has not heard from him again. Since then, she has been raising the baby alone—struggling daily to meet basic needs and survive without assistance.

Faith Oluwaseun Mark was introduced to Sister Ola through a woman she had previously ministered to. The connection was made for prayer and counselling, as Sister Ola was emotionally exhausted and overwhelmed. During their conversation, Sister Ola revealed that she had been considering taking her baby to an orphanage because the burden had become unbearable.

Faith encouraged her with the Word of God, urging her not to lose hope or give up on her child. She cautioned her against making hasty decisions, explaining that some orphanages have unfortunately been found guilty of negligence. She encouraged Sister Ola to trust God fully and to sincerely ask Him for help.

Moved by compassion and guided by the heart of service, Faith provided ₦15,000 to support Sister Ola’s immediate needs and offer her encouragement during this difficult season. The support was received with deep gratitude and brought renewed strength and reassurance.

While the circumstances of the man’s disappearance remain unclear—especially since he showed a strong interest in the child before—Faith and the Empowered Servants Initiative continue to trust God to make a way for Sister Ola and her baby.

Reflection

This story embodies the mission of the Empowered Servants Initiative: standing with the vulnerable, offering counsel and compassion, and restoring hope in moments of despair. Through faith, generosity, and presence, lives are strengthened, and futures are given another chance.