In its continued effort to uplift the vulnerable in society, the NISSI Foundation, a faith-based non-governmental organisation, has again extended its hand of compassion to over 120 elderly persons, widows, and the less privileged during the 13th edition of its annual mid-year outreach.
Held at the RCCG Divine Assurance Parish, Ajebamidele, Ado-Ekiti, on Sunday, July 20, 2025, the outreach, themed “Strength in Seasons,” combined medical care, health education, cultural performance, and spiritual intercession to cater to the physical and emotional needs of the participants.
The convener of the foundation, Mrs. Oyeyemi Kayode-Ojo, described the initiative as a divine mandate aimed at reminding society of the need to care for the neglected. She said the outreach began as a modest intervention years ago but has now evolved into a life-changing programme across communities in Ekiti.
Speaking on the importance of the theme, Mrs Kayode-Ojo noted that many people are battling mental, financial, and physical fatigue, calling on individuals to see their blessings as divine trusts meant to be shared with others, put smiles on faces and bring life back to the hopeless.
“This initiative reminds us that those who have must never forget those who do not. True wealth is not in what we own but in how much we can give to uplift others. We are all channels of God’s blessings. When we withhold from others, we are not fulfilling purpose. We will all give account of what God has placed in our hands.” She thanked the RCCG authority and pastor Mrs Folu Adeboye for encouraging female leaders in the mission to impact communities.
Stating that the vision was to make the initiative more sustainable, she thanked all the participants, volunteers and partners assuring them that she will continue to do everything in her capacity to make the people happier
The event featured two main comprehensive health sessions anchored experts. Miss Dunsin Kayode-Ojo, a physiotherapist and student of GIGMOF school of Mentoring as well as Sarah Osaweremen, a psychologist and pharmacologist spoke on the danger of Non communicable Disease (NCDs), particularly, high blood pressure and diabetes.
They highlighted healthy dietary lifestyle, staying physically active as well as regular health monitoring as part of the ways to preventing such medical conditions.
The second session was led by Dr. Olumide Obe, who spoke on the importance of “Cultivating Mental Resilience in Times of Adversity.” He emphasized that resilience is vital across all age groups, and that positive thinking, spiritual faith, and lifestyle discipline are key to overcoming hardship.
“Adversity is part of life, but resilience is what helps us thrive. We must all learn to fill our minds with positivity, keep faith in ourselves, and above all, keep faith in God,” he advised.
He encouraged participants to stay hydrated, avoid self-medication, eat healthy, and remain spiritually connected, stressing that medical fitness in old age is not accidental but intentional.
Participants received free medical checks, including blood pressure and glucose screening, medications, and referrals for further care, while health education was offered on managing chronic conditions.
Speaking with the media, Pastor Kayode Ojo, husband of the convener, reminded beneficiaries of God’s enduring love and urged them to use the little they receive to also bless others.
“Whatever you have today may not be enough, but God is able to sustain you. Let every person, young or old , look up to Him. He is our source.”
He prayed for healing and restoration and commended the Foundation for its steadfast commitment to the less privileged.
The Treasurer of the Foundation, Mr. Ogundare Tope Clement, highlighted the impact of the programme over the years, revealing that the outreach has been holding twice annually and has helped restore dignity to many neglected elderly persons and widows.
“We do more than provide food or medicine, we offer hope. Some of our beneficiaries have been abandoned by their children. This programme reassures them that they are not forgotten.”
According to him, the Foundation aims to connect with more visible donors to get empowerment tools to needing participants in order to reduce dependency and facilitate financial capacity of the vulnerable. He described the outreach as a bridge of compassion — one that connects medical, emotional, and spiritual care to those who need it most.
During an emotional open-mic session, several participants shared how the outreach had changed their lives. A widow, visibly moved, described the programme as her “only source of strength” since losing her husband. “Beyond food and medicine, Mama [Mrs Kayode-Ojo] gives us love. She calls, she checks on us. This is the only place where I feel truly seen.”
Another elderly woman said the programme had improved her wellbeing and given her a sense of belonging. “We come here to laugh, to learn, and to know that someone still cares.”
To lighten the mood, a cultural troupe thrilled participants with colourful performances, traditional drumming, and praise songs — celebrating the enduring spirit of the community.
A special intercessory prayer was also held for Nigeria, as attendees joined hands to pray for peace, stability, and good leadership across the nation.
At the end of the event, food items were distributed to all participants, with volunteers assisting elderly persons in carrying their packages.
Speaking with the media after the programme, Mrs. Kayode-Ojo reaffirmed her commitment to expanding the Foundation’s reach and expressed gratitude to RCCG Divine Assurance Parish, the medical team, donors, and volunteers who supported the event.
Also addressing the media Pastor (Mrs) Shola Shittu urged beneficiaries to trust God in all circumstances, describing gratitude and generosity as vital spiritual habits.
“Giving back from what God has given you is a sacred duty. When you fail to do so, you fall short of God’s purpose. You are not alone. Draw strength from others, and lean on God. He is able.”
She encouraged the participants to draw strength from others’ stories of survival, and to remain confident in God’s power to see them through life’s seasons.