The teens took in their surroundings as the city pulsed with activity around them. They stretched their necks back to look up at the tall buildings, moving slowly so as not to miss anything and to avoid entering traffic. The Transitions Program Students were in Abuja, Nigeria, but it felt like they were in a different… Read more
For privacy and the protection of children, names in this story have been changed. From an early age, Julia has shown spunk and a natural tendency for giving to others. She and her four siblings came to a children’s home seven years ago. The five children endured the difficult loss of both their parents, and… Read more
The path leading to Igmin Kibe Education Center is long and winding. The dust rises in the air following the footsteps of villagers and the occasional wild animal. On a clear-skied afternoon, a young girl atop a bicycle made her way down the dirt trail. She cycled closer and those who recognized her smiled at… Read more
Psalm 82:3 Defend the weak and the fatherless; uphold the cause of the poor and the oppressed. Field story by Amanda Obemeasor, Back2Back Nigeria Staff It was a Sunday morning a few years ago. The church was bringing attention to the worldwide orphan crisis, on a day, internationally, known as Orphan Sunday. It is a time when… Read more
Igmin Kibe Education Center sits in the midst of large, intimidating rocks. The perimeter of stones and patches of greenery create a sort of barrier around the large, open space. On a warm day in December, teens from each home Back2Back serves gathered for a day-long leadership camp. The eight teams waited patiently to hear… Read more
The Kisayhip village is on the outskirts of Jos, Nigeria. Filled with families whose children attend Igmin Kibe Education Center, Kisayhip consists of very few roads and most of its homes lack electricity. Street lights do not exist in Kisayhip. When the sun sinks low at night, everyday things like walking to the bathroom can… Read more
Names have been changed to protect children’s identities. Ezekiel stood before the crowd and took a deep breath. As he closed his eyes quickly to control his nerves, the audience hushed in anticipation. Ezekiel began his spoken word piece, he heard his voice crack, but gathered confidence as he shared each line from memory, all the… Read more
The four young men sat at the head table and looked out at the faces smiling back. Michael* tugged at his tie, unaccustomed to wearing one. Edgar’s* broad grin transformed his face, there was no mistaking his enthusiasm. Titus* took everything in – from the people who came, to the food being eaten, and relished… Read more
“Can a woman forget her nursing child, that she should have no compassion on the son of her womb? Even these may forget, yet I will not forget you.” Isaiah 49:15 Field Story by Dori McCormick, Nigeria As a new mom, I feel it would be nearly impossible to forget about my nursing baby. Our… Read more
“What would you young ladies like to eat?” Esther and Hosanna asked Abigail* and Naomi*. Namoi’s eyes lit up as she considered her options. “French fries!” Everyone laughed, as the four of them headed out the door. “Then let’s find some french fries!” said Hosanna. Esther and Hosanna are two new Nigerian Hope Parents. Their… Read more