By: Goodluck E. Adubazi, Abuja.
In a remarkable show of community development and service, the National Association of SeaDogs (NAS), in partnership with the Regy and Henry Amazing Grace Foundation (RHAGF), has concluded a two-week intensive skills acquisition and empowerment program in the Kukwaba community of Abuja.
“The initiative, which began on June 23, 2025, ended on July 5 with a ceremony that celebrated both the beneficiaries and the commitment of the organizers.
Speaking at the closing event, Dr. Uju Patrick C., Program Director of NAS Zuma Deck, reaffirmed the organization’s dedication to social impact and sustainable empowerment.
“We trained over 100 individuals in a variety of vocational skills, equipping them with tools and resources to begin their journey towards economic independence,” Dr. Uju stated.
“Beyond training, we provided starter kits to enable them to hit the ground running, and we are committed to providing ongoing support to ensure the sustainability of their endeavors.” Dr. Uju Patrick remarks.
He also announced a free medical outreach scheduled for the following Saturday, where residents will have access to medical consultations, treatments, and medication at no cost.
The traditional ruler of the Kukwaba community, HRH Manasseh Luka (Dakaci Kukwaba), expressed heartfelt gratitude to the SeaDogs and RHAGF for choosing his community for this significant investment.
“I thank the SeaDogs for their selfless efforts. There are many communities, but you chose Kukwaba,” he said. “May God replenish all that you have given.”
Encouraging the beneficiaries, the chief urged them to not only utilize the skills they’ve acquired but also share their knowledge with others within the community.
Dr. Regina Duru, National Coordinator of RHAGF, echoed the same sentiments and commended the commitment of both partners and participants. She recalled the community’s earlier appeal during a similar intervention in Maitama Kubwa and emphasized the foundation’s commitment to underserved communities despite limited funding.
“This program was not funded by grants,” she revealed. “We rely on the goodwill of family, friends, and individuals. By God’s grace, we found a willing and impactful partner in the SeaDogs. Together, we have made a real difference.”
She acknowledged the efforts of the digital trainer and other facilitators who encouraged trainees to begin small, even using mobile phones to market their products online.
Henry of RHAGF, co-founder of the foundation, shared an emotional closing remark. “I am overwhelmed. For the past two weeks, we’ve witnessed a transformation in the lives of these young people. SeaDogs, you are truly great,” he said.
Standard Times Nigeria, which has covered the event from its inception, can confirm that National Association of SeaDogs (NAS), Zuma Deck, fulfilled its promises. During the closing ceremony, the organizers distributed start-up equipment to trainees across six skill areas: tailoring, baking, catering, hair braiding, shoe making, and bread production.
Special cash prizes were also awarded to outstanding participants from each group, including Solomon Vincent, Idoko, and Onojah Blessin, who expressed immense gratitude to NAS and RHAGF for the life-changing opportunity.
Over 50 members of the SeaDogs attended the closing ceremony, lending support and witnessing the fulfillment of a promise made just two weeks prior—a promise now turned into a new chapter of hope for the Kukwaba community.
The Regy and Henry Amazing Grace Foundation, established in 2009, continues to focus on slum-based development, addressing issues of poverty, illiteracy, and marginalization in neglected communities across Nigeria.
With this successful intervention, both NAS and RHAGF have demonstrated the profound impact that partnerships and grassroots empowerment can have in reshaping the lives of underserved populations.