Students and youth participating in programs to benefit

(MissionNewswire) Salesian missionaries were able to complete construction of a Salesian residence and perimeter fence in Ogidi, Anambra state of Nigeria, thanks to donor funds. The funding came from Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco.

The construction project was completed in order to foster the Salesian mission and promote the holistic education of youth. The direct beneficiaries of the project are the 150 Salesians and close to 300 students who attend the Salesian institute, 300 youth who will use the facilities for the youth program, and 30 staff of the institute.

A Salesian explained, “The residence is now fully operational and provides a conducive environment for Salesian religious life, pastoral outreach, and youth education. Its completion significantly enhances the capacity of the Salesians to serve the young people of Ogidi with renewed dedication and stability.”

Ogidi is located in the southeast region of Nigeria, an area that has been experiencing persistent security tensions due to ongoing agitation by groups advocating for regional autonomy. This situation has at times created an unstable environment in the region.

Reverend Chris Ansu said, “We were truly encouraged when construction of the vocational training center began in Ogidi. At the same time, however, we faced a concern, wondering how to maintain this when there was no local residence for the Salesians. This project has come at exactly the right moment. We are deeply grateful that by the time the school resumes, the Salesians will already be living in the residence.”

Rev. Ansu added, “Our physical presence and visibility among the people of Ogidi allow us to support them in their daily lives. Establishing our presence in Ogidi will reduce idleness among youth who currently have nothing concrete to engage their time. In turn, this will contribute to a reduction in crime and create a safer, more hopeful environment for the entire community.”

About 64% of households in Nigeria consider themselves to be poor while 32% of households say their economic situation had worsened over a period of one year, according to UNICEF. Poverty still remains one of the most critical challenges facing the country and population growth rates have meant a steady increase in the number of people living in conditions of poverty.

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Sources:

Photo courtesy of Salesian Missions (contact for usage permissions)

Salesian Missions – Nigeria

UNICEF – Nigeria