ASABA, DELTA STATE | Sunday, June 22, 2025 — In a bold move to tackle poverty, displacement, and food insecurity in Nigeria, the Diocese of Asaba Anglican Communion officially launched the Diocese of Asaba Agape Foundation (DAAF)—a non-governmental organization committed to improving the lives of the underprivileged through structured humanitarian interventions.
The launch event, held at the Knight House Bishopcourt, Asaba, marked a historic beginning for what stakeholders described as a “mustard seed initiative with a vision to grow into a mighty tree of change.”
Presiding over the event, the Chairperson of the Foundation Committee, Lady Patience Ogbewe, stated,
“Today, we are here to launch and unveil the Diocese of Asaba Agape Foundation. Although it is like a mustard seed for now, we believe it will grow. We must take a step—and this is the step we have taken today. The NGO was initiated on March 7, 2025, as a vision of the Bishop of Asaba Diocese. Prior to now, the Diocese had been involved in elderly care, orphanage services, and medical outreaches separately. With the foundation, we now have a unified structure to coordinate these activities more effectively.”
Representing the Delta State Deputy Governor, Sir Monday Onyeme, at the event was Lion Sir Chukwu Anthony, Special Assistant to the Governor on Non-Indigene Affairs. He commended the Church for the initiative, describing it as a commendable step in addressing societal needs.
“This is a good initiative. Many individuals have floated foundations in the past—some survived while others didn’t due to poor management. But I believe this will thrive. The government cannot do it all, and the Church plays a vital role in reaching the vulnerable. Often, when the government distributes palliatives, it relies on religious leaders to ensure they reach the downtrodden. If more individuals and institutions act like this, the world will be a better place,” he said.
Delivering his goodwill message, the Chairman of the Occasion, Hon. Ezenyili Kelvin Obi—Chairman of Oshimili South Local Government Council, represented by his Vice, Hon. Mrs. Ify Ogbogu—commended the Diocese’s effort to institutionalize its humanitarian services.
“We gather today to launch a laudable initiative. I believe I speak the minds of everyone present—we are proud to be part of this. The Foundation’s focus on empowering the vulnerable and fostering community development is inspiring. With the grace of God, its mission will be fulfilled,” she stated.
In a paper presentation, Rev. Canon O.J. Akpodiete emphasized that DAAF is a practical demonstration of Christian love—Agape—and a platform designed to address spiritual and physical needs of the vulnerable.
“With millions displaced due to insurgency and hardship, DAAF seeks to provide food, shelter, medical care, and empowerment through community efforts and donor partnerships,” he said. He urged public and private donors to support the Foundation, likening their contributions to the biblical miracle of Jesus feeding the multitude with five loaves and two fishes.
Delivering the keynote address, the Diocesan Bishop and Convener of the Foundation, Rt. Rev’d Kingsley C. Obuh, said DAAF was born out of a deep commitment to compassion, faith, and societal development.
“The Foundation is centered on love—Agape. Our goal is to tackle poverty, improve access to healthcare and education, and empower those who are most in need,” Bishop Obuh said. He unveiled two-year strategic plan targeting over 10,000 beneficiaries across 30 communities, which includes:
- Scholarships for 200 underprivileged students,
- Vocational training for 1,000 youths and adults,
- Medical care for 200 elderly individuals,
- Microfinance loans totaling ₦20 million to support small businesses.
The Foundation also announced the development of a digital social register to enhance data tracking and transparency in the disbursement of aid and services.
Bishop Obuh called for collaboration among government agencies, private sector actors, and community members to support the Foundation’s goals. He expressed gratitude to all supporters and emphasized that DAAF is a shared call to service and legacy-building.
The event climaxed with the unveiling of the Foundation’s plaque by Bishop Kingsley Obuh, symbolizing the official commencement of the Diocese’s humanitarian platform. Dignitaries, clergy, donors, and community members were in attendance.
With a vision rooted in selfless love and community transformation, the Diocese of Asaba Agape Foundation (DAAF) has set a clear course to be a beacon of hope and an engine of positive change across Delta State and beyond.
