By Abubakar Abraham and Marvelous Sanni
It was a joyful moment for some orphans in Lokoja recently as the Deputy News Editor of The Graphic newspaper, Ms. Grace Ben Kato, marked her birthday in a special way with them.
Ms. Grace Ben Kato, celebrated her birthday by visiting the Ministry of Mercy (MOM) Orphanage in Lokoja, the Kogi State capital, accompanied by family, friends, colleagues, and well-wishers.
Grace Ben Kato, who is also a prominent member of Rotary International in the club of Lokoja Metro, was joined by a delegation of Rotarians on the visit.
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The group arrived at the orphanage bearing food items, essential supplies, and gifts for the children.
MOM Orphanage, primarily located in Otutulu village, Dekina Local Government Area, with additional facilities in Lokoja, cares for over 400 orphans and children with special needs. Founded in 1992, it began supporting children with disabilities such as albinism and epilepsy before growing into a full orphanage.
It includes a school, basic health clinic, dormitories, farm, and staff quarters to provide education, healthcare, and holistic care.
Speaking at the event, Ms. Kato, said the visit was a last-minute decision that brought her peace.
“I planned this visit at the last minute, and since then my mind has been at rest,” she remarked. She urged people not to take life for granted, noting that many overlook the struggles of orphaned children.
“Sometimes we do not mind what is happening on the other side of the fence for children like this,” she added.
Ms. Kato stressed the deeper purpose of bringing friends along. “I am here today with my friends not because I want to show off my good deeds, but because I want them to come back and show love and assistance to these children,” she explained, hoping to inspire ongoing support.
Mr. Samson, representing the proprietor, warmly welcomed the visitors and offered prayers for Ms Kato’s continued success. He highlighted the ministry’s evolution from caring for children with special needs to becoming a comprehensive orphanage.
The Managing Director of The Graphic Newspaper, Mr. Yusuf Itopa, praised the celebrant’s kindness. “I have always known that the celebrant has a heart of gold and always does everything possible to put smiles on people’s faces,” he said.
He called the visit a reminder of God’s mercy and encouraged others to support the children. “This movement should remind us of the kindness and mercies of God… as I will do the same,” he added.
In the same vein, DCP Christopher Bassey Uweh, Deputy Commissioner, CID, Lokoja, Kogi State Police Command, charged well to do individuals and organisations, to emulate the celebrant by giving to the less privilege and not partying alone during birthdays and anniversaries. The visit, he said, has encouraged him to do more for orphans and the needy.
Volunteering medical personnel, Dr. Samuel Alhassan, emphasised that human presence matters more than gifts. “You must not come bearing gifts or food items. Your presence alone means a lot to these children, and your visits put smiles on their faces,” he said.
After the orphanage visit, the group held a get-together at the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), premises in Lokoja. Attendees enjoyed food, drinks, and fellowship, celebrating Ms Grace’s special day among colleagues, Rotary members, family and friends.
The event concluded with prayers led by Rotarian Iliyasu Shaibu, Chief of Staff to the District Governor, D9125 of Rotary International, who blessed the children, the orphanage, and the celebrant.
Grace birthday outreach exemplifies using personal milestones to give back and inspire compassion. It underscores the needs of vulnerable children and the impact of sustained empathy, presence, and support in Kogi State and beyond.
