The 2nd of November, 2024 will remain indelible the history of Equestrian Saints Children’s Home, as the edifice to accommodate the children was officially commissioned for public patronage.
In her address presentation, the hostess, HRM Queen Amb. Dr. Josephine Diete-Spiff described the home as the first of its kind in PortHarcourt and the South-South region of the Niger Delta; adding that the home is an extension of Global Intercessory Outreach Ministries headquartered in the United States.
She disclosed that it fulfills part of the ministry’s vision of meeting the needs of widows and orphans and leading them to our Lord Jesus Christ, for the salvation of their souls and interceding for them through prayer.
Queen Diete-Spiff, who welcomed guests to the inauguration ceremony on behalf Apostle Florence Ngeneka, President, Intercessory Outreach Ministries, herself and members of the ministry, stated that the initiative was an act of hope and love for many underprivileged children, who otherwise would have suffered in poverty or been led to commit crime.
According to Her Majesty: “Today, we are not just opening doors, we are opening hearts. We are creating a sanctuary where children will find shelter and the warmth of a nurturing family, where they will be guided, loved, and taught. This orphanage is more than a building, it is a place where destines are shaped and dreams are cultivated.
“As we embark on this incredible journey together, let us clarify our mission: the children who reside here will not be adopted into other families, but raised to fulfill their God-given destinies.
“Our commitment is to provide a stable, loving environment where they can grow in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. We believe every child is a unique creation endowed with purpose and potential, and it is our calling to help them discover and embrace that purpose.
“In this sanctuary, these children will have the opportunity to learn and grow in God’s wisdom. They will be taught to understand their worth in the eyes of their Creator, recognize the gifts He has bestowed upon them and develop the skills they need to thrive in life. We will ensure they receive a well-rounded academic, spiritual, and emotional education to become tomorrow’s leaders and change makers.
“Our vision for this orphanage extends beyond mere physical care. We are committed to nurturing their spirits through prayer, worship, and community service.
“We want them to know that they are never alone and part of a more prominent family, the family of God. They will learn about love, compassion, and the importance of serving others, embodying the values that Jesus taught us.
“Remember that each child is a precious gift deserving of love, guidance, and stability. Together, we will walk alongside them, providing the support they need to navigate life’s challenges and flourish on their unique paths. We are here to ensure they survive and thrive, growing into the men and women God has called them to be.
“As we dedicate this orphanage today, let us also dedicate ourselves to this mission. Let us be Jesus’ hands and feet in the lives of these children. We can create a nurturing community that reflects His love and grace with your support.
“In closing, I invite you all to join us in prayer, asking for God’s blessings upon this orphanage, the children who will call it home, and all those involved in their lives. May this place be filled with laughter, love, and the light of Christ,’ the Queen Mother stated.
In his word ministration, Pastor Dr. Usiwo Obibi, who made references to the book of 2 Kings 19:30-31 and James 1:27 further gave an explanation on the name of the children’s home ‘Equestrian.’
Speaking in an interview, shortly after his goodwill message, Mr. Mohammed Sunmonu, representative of Chief Joe Onah, CEO, Total Success World International Africa, expressed the willingness of his boss to identify and support the orphanage home.
Mr. Sunmonu, enumerated on the several efforts of Chief Onah in collaboration with NAPTIP and other relevant agencies across Africa, to ensure prohibition and reducing the cases of child trafficking to the barest minimum, while in Ivory Coast.
Mr. Sunmonu in the meantime, lauded HRM Queen Dr. Josephine Diete-Spiff for her giant strides in the service of God and humanity.
Other dignitaries that gave their goodwill messages which include: Hon. Emma Okah, former Commissioner for Information, Rivers State; Character Dr. Colony Christian Kokoriko, President/Founder, Character Moulding Foundation; Rev. Ikechukwu Ndukwe; Rev. Mrs. Rose Ogbonna and Pastor Dr. Mrs. Wealth Jane Obibi, spoke passionately on their respective relationships with Queen Diete-Spiff and lauded her vision for the orphanage home, particularly on the decision not to get the orphanage children adopted by another family.
While HRH Queen Pat Agala of Anyama Ogbia Kingdom, Bayelsa State, who accompanied HRM Queen Josephine Diete-Spiff to the inauguration, appreciated Queen Diete-Spiff for giving the home a Godly background.
Queen Agala further commended Queen Barr. Diete-Spiff for her impact on them, when she was the chairperson, Wives of Traditional Rulers in Bayelsa State, affirming that everything about her is worthy of emulation.
In the same vein, Chief Mrs. Constance Megu, the Publisher of National Point Newspaper, promised to support the orphanage home project and to use her medium to give prompt publicity on the activity of the home.
