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About Us

Social Welfare Network Initiative is a Community Systems strengthening national network of civil society organisations [CSOs] and Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs).

It is a not-for-profit, non-religious and non-governmental organization (NGO) with membership of 628 community-based organizations, groups and stakeholders in the 36 States of Nigeria and the Federal Capital Territory. It is involved in prevention, treatment, impact mitigation, care and support for HIV/AIDS (Orphans and Vulnerable Children, People Living with HIV), TB and Malaria, Eye Care/Blindness Prevention, Vaccinations/Immunizations, Preventing/Controlling Poverty-Related Diseases; Nutrition and Food Security; Security and Social Justice, Advocates for Women Rights/Abuse.

There are a few poorly equipped public schools having teachers who have no incentives to work and no opportunities to improve teaching skills. The local medical centre is lacking in medicines, equipment and medical staff so that proper medical attention is limited especially for women of childbearing age.

Such basic amenities as electricity and water supply are limited resulting in poor living conditions. Primary health care facilities are almost non-existent and even with the presence of physical buildings representing Primary Health Centre (PHC) in the localities, a closer look will reveal some unwholesome and most degrading scenarios; the primary health centres (PHC) are not equipped at all. Some house only one or two admission beds while all the primary health centres visited lacked drugs in the dispensaries.

Malaria fever is rampant with the highest peak experienced between June–September yearly. Malaria treatments in these rural communities cost as much as N3500 per individual; a sum which is almost impossible for the villagers who are mostly peasant farmers, this is common amongst older members of the community. The result as is to be expected is high mortality from this easily treatable disease. Glaucoma and cataracts are also rampant in this area among the elderly.

Women struggle to support families although their poor educational background prevents most from advancing to gain better opportunities.

The concept behind Social Welfare Network Initiative (SWNI) might seem conventional today, but its beginning was as a result of an uncommon vision of the founder; Mr. Emmanuel O. Osemeka– “We desire to build a new paradigm: one in which rural and semi-urban communities operate to add value to society — without compromising the well-being of future generations.”

This vision has led to the development of an initiative that will provide support to government efforts by providing free medical treatment for the people within the community of its birth.

These were the beginnings of Social Welfare Network Initiative.

Our Mission

SWNI is a leading non-governmental organization (NGO) committed to addressing Nigerian development and policy issues by working in partnership with all stakeholders to build sustainable, healthy and productive communities.

Our Vision

To ensure everyone in our rural communities have access to Social Welfare, Security, Social Justice and qualitative primary health care and safe drinking water.

Core Values 1

Adaptability We are open to bold, innovative strategies, responsive to changing circumstances, ready to take advantage of strategic opportunities, and prepared to share the risks inherent in the work of resisting and transforming oppressive structures and systems.

Core Values 2

Collaboration We are dedicated to forging collaborative partnerships with donors, grantees, and other organisations in order to achieve shared goals.

Core Values 3

Accountability We are committed to being accountable, evaluating and communicating the outcomes of our grantmaking, and to sharing what we have learned about doing successful social justice philanthropy.

Core Values 4

Sustainability We are determined to make real, lasting improvements in people’s lives by inspiring others to join us in this work and contributing to it financially.


Meet Our Team

MR. EMMANUEL O. OSEMEKA – National coordinator,

EMMANUEL is a BSc. graduate of Math and Computer Science from University of Abuja, a Postgraduate diploma (PGD) in Theology from Redeemed Christian Bible College, and Diploma Certificate in Bible Studies from Lamb & Light Inc., Certificate in Project Management, Certificate in Project Programme Planning/Design and Management Course, amongst others. He has worked in different management positions before venturing into community development (SWNI), they include NAN BIZCOM SERVICE (a subsidiary of News Agency of Nigeria, NAN); (Business Manager), church Administrator – RCCG – desire of nations, Abuja. He is an entrepreneur of over 12years cognate experience. He is an ordained Christian missionary and has been involved with rural missions for more than 11 years.

MRS. GRACE NWIGWE– (Volunteer), Programme Manager/HR

GRACE is a Chartered Administrative Professional a member of the International Association of Administrative Professionals (IAAP). She has a passion for building sound administrative systems and provides consulting, support and training services in administration. Grace is a graduate of Geology and Mining from the University of Jos, Nigeria.

VIVIAN UZOAMAKA NWABUEZE (VOLUNTEER) ACCOUNT OFFICER –

VIVIAN is a graduate of Economics with BSc. from Enugu State University of Science and Technology, Enugu, had her Primary and secondary education in Owerri and Aba. NYSC in Benue state (Mathematics teacher), Grand Products Company Ltd. (Account officer/Store officers) Standard Chartered Bank Ltd. (Marketer); MAPS – Malaria Action Program for State – an NGO (Pay Officer) and currently working with NIAF (Nigeria Infrastructure Advisory Facility) an NGO under Adam Smith international as Account officer.

MR. EMMANUEL O. OSEMEKA - Board Member

MR. EMMANUEL O. OSEMEKA is a graduate of Math and Computer Science with BSc. from University of Abuja, a Postgraduate diploma (PGD) in Theology from Redeemed Christian Bible College, and Diploma Certificate in Bible Studies from Lamb & Light Inc., amongst others. He worked in different management positions before setting up SWNI, they include NAN BIZCOM SERVICE (a subsidiary of News Agency of Nigeria, NAN); (Business Manager), church Administrator – RCCG – desire of nations, Abuja. He is an entrepreneur of over 12years cognate experience. He is an ordained Christian missionary and has been involved with rural missions for more than 11 years.

REV. OLUMIDE OMOBUWAJO - Board Member

REV. OLUMIDE OMOBUWAJO is a missionary and the Pastor of Bible Life Centre Inc.,in Estako West LGA, a full time missionary of 25years cognate experience, all in Estako West LGA. He was called to the Ministry while in University of Lagos and after graduation in 1985 he relocated to this rural community for the propagation of the Gospel of Jesus Christ and that he has been doing ever since. He is married to Rev. (Mrs.) Yemisi Omobuwajo and he is blessed with children.

MR. CHARLES OBI-OBASI - Board Member

MR. CHARLES OBI-OBASIis the Managing partner of CVAC Nigeria Limited, a marketing consulting firm. He has 27 years’ post-graduation working experience in the Courier and Telecommunications industries. He held senior management position with Cell Communications Limited; and Assistant General Manager (Northern Region) with Reliance Telecommunications Limited. He is married to Barr [Mrs.] Chinyere Obi-Obasi and is blessed with five children.

MR. OLADAYO KEHINDE - Board Member

MR. OLADAYO KEHINDE is an Abuja based Security Consultant, with over twenty two years experience in the public and private sector. He graduated from the University of Lagos in 1988, did his National Youth Service in Kano State in 1988/89 Service year before joining the Department of State Services in 1990 where he retired as an Assistant Director in 2010.He is married to Mrs. Taiwo Kehinde and are blessed with three children.

MR. AUSTIN KAODILINYE IFEDI - Board Member

MR. AUSTIN KAODILINYE IFEDI is a real estate developer and the CEO of Ability Homes Nigeria limited, a fast growing real estate company in Abuja. Born 30th of July 1968, to chief and Mrs. Mathew Okonkwo Ifedi, Austin Kaodilinye Ifedi is the 8th of 9 children he hails from Utuh in Nnewi south L G A, Anambra State.

From 1975–1979, he attended LCC primary school, Fadeyi, Lagos he then proceed to Premier College, Yaba (now Jibowu Grammar School) where he had his Junior Secondary Education, from 1979 – 1981. He completed his Secondary Education at Angos Memorial High School from 1981- 86.

Shortly after his secondary education he left for Jos in 1987 in pursuit of a Higher Education (to study Psychology) however, by twist of fate, he found himself in Calabar instead, in the year 1988. There, he was employed as a Sales Representative with UNISON NIGERIA LIMITED, a building and construction equipment company. Having distinguished himself on the job, he became the Manager of FECO Ventures Nigeria limited, a subsidiary of UNISON, in 1991. This position he occupied till 1994. Now fully armed with the skills garnered from all of life’s experience, he launched out on his own, and formed his very own company; IFEDLINKS Ventures also a building and construction equipment company. He served as the CEO from 1995 – 2001. His quest for success took him to Abuja in 2001 to take up appointment as Special Assistant (Projects) / Personal Assistant to the CEO, SNECOU Group of companies, he served in this capacity between the years 2001 – 2010. In 2010, he once again ventured on his own and established his own real estate firm, Ability Homes Nigeria limited. Mr. Austin Kaodilinye Ifedi is a remarkable force to reckon with. As a philanthropist, he has genuine concern for the plight of others and will go to great lengths to ensure their well- being.

He is a natural solution provider, with a penchant for excellence. This is evidenced by the in-depth attention he pays to detail in the construction of the many properties he has constructed and designed through the years. Even though he is a born leader, he is also a team player; a humble man. He is one of the founding members as well as the vice president, Nigeria/Belize chambers of commerce, agricultural and tourism. He is a Board Member member of Social Welfare Network Initiative – an NGO for the less privileged. He is the Vice President of Cubana, Wuse 2 Chapter of Full Gospel Business Men’s Fellowship and Abuja Catholic Men’s Organization.

On the social level, he belongs to a couple of football associations like the Abuja All Stars Football Club, where he present serves as the Assistant Team Manager and United Breed Sport Club, Calabar where he once served as Vice President. He is married to Barrister (Mrs.) Angela Ada Ifedi and their union is blessed with children. His hobbies include football, travelling and networking.

MRS. MARY OSEMEKA - Board Member

MRS. MARY OSEMEKA is the Executive Director of Omni-dot Page Nigeria Limited, a wife, mother, entrepreneur and a missionary. She is a beautician and cosmetologist with over 15years practical experience. She enjoys putting smiles on other people’s faces most especially the less privileged, under-privileged and the underserved in the society.

MR. OSONDU OKORO - Board Member

MR. OSONDU OKORO is the Managing Director/CEO of KELLINK NIGERIA LTD, a 1994 Sociology graduate from the University of Port Harcourt. He has worked in very senior positions before establishing Kellink Nigeria Limited Abuja. These include MegaData Global Limited as Pioneer (General Manager, Admin Services/Procurement) and Major Gas & Lubricants Kaduna (Marketing Officer). A devout Catholic who would rather starve than see other people suffers deprivation of any sort. He is an International businessman. He has serious interest in the well being of the down trodden in our society.

Dr. Stephen C. Ume, MD - Lead Consultant/Project Manager

Dr Stephen Ume, an American-trained eye consultant and Surgeon is the lead Consultant. He is the Medical Director of Florida Eye Clinic: American Eye Consultants and Surgeons in Abuja. Dr Ume graduated from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) with a Bachelor of Science degree in microbiology and molecular genetics in 1993. He continued his education at the University of Michigan College of Pharmacy, Ann Arbor in 1995 and at the Finch University of Health Sciences/Chicago Medical School, Chicago where he graduated alpha omega alpha honors with Masters in Applied Physiology and a joint Doctorate of Medicine and Masters of Science degree with emphasis in Pathology in June, 2001.

Before founding Florida Eye Clinic, Dr Ume completed his internship and ophthalmology residency at Henry Ford Health Systems, Michigan in 2005 and a clinical glaucoma fellowship at the Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami School of Medicine, Florida. Bascom Palmer Eye Institute is the number one ranked eye hospital, by the US News and World Report in the United States. He has participated in many presentations and teachings around the world and published in ophthalmology academic journals. Dr Ume is a diplomate of the American Academy of Ophthalmology and is licensed to practice medicine in the state of Florida. He maintains professional affiliation with private practice in Jacksonville, Florida.

Dr. Stephen Ume’s
Curriculum Vitae

Publications and Presentations:

Scanning Laser Polarimetry with Enhanced Corneal Compensation and Optical Coherence Tomography in Normal and Glaucomatous Eyes. Mitra Sehi, Stephen Ume, David S. Greenfield, and Advanced Imaging in Glaucoma Study Group. IOVS 2007 48: 2099-2104.

Structural Assessments Using Scanning Laser Polarimetry with Enhanced Corneal Compensation, Optical Coherence Tomography, and Heidelberg Retina Tomography in Normal and Glaucomatous Eyes. Stephen Ume, Mitra Sehi, David Greenfield. ARVO annual meeting, Ft Lauderdale, FL. 2006

Angiotensin II and Diabetic Retinal Leukostasis. Ping Chen, Stephen Ume, et al. Am. Soc. for Invest. Pathol. San Diego, CA 2003

Honors, Awards and Achievements:

  • Alpha Omega Alpha (AOA), Chicago Medical School, 2001
  • Dean’s Award for Academics/ Community Service, Chicago Medical School, 2001
  • Lakewood Medical Center Foundation Scholarship, 1998-2000
  • Internal Medicine Interest Group Award of Excellence, 1999
  • Honors Award, Pathology, Chicago Medical School, 1999
  • California State House of Assembly Certificate of Recognition in Medicine, 1998
  • Pediatric Research and The American Pediatric Society Fellowship, 1998
  • The Chicago Medical School Summer Research Fellowship, 1998
  • Dean’s Academic Achievement Award, University of Michigan College of Pharmacy, 1995
  • UCLA Center for Academic and Research Excellence Fellowship, 1992
  • UCLA Student Research Project Fellowship, 1992
  • Finalist, University of California Regents Community Service Award, 1990
  • Golden Key and Alpha gamma Sigma National Honors Society

    • Public Service:

  • Glaucoma Consultant, Care for Sight Foundation, Erode, India, May 2009
  • Principal Ophthalmologist, Goodwill and Mercy Foundation medical mission to Nigeria, 2004
  • Participant, The United States Congressional Glaucoma Caucus Foundation community eye screenings, Michigan, 2004
  • Instructor, Diabetic Ocular Complications Workshop, Henry Ford Health Systems, 2004
  • Participant, glaucoma screening, African American Initiative for Male Health Improvement, Henry Ford Health Systems, Michigan, 1991-2001

    • Medical Licensure:

  • State of Florida full, active, unrestricted medical license
  • Nigeria medical and Dental Association medical license

    • Organizations/ Affiliations:

  • American Academy of Ophthalmology American Medical Association
  • American Society of Refractive and Cataract Surgeons
  • Florida Society of Ophthalmology.

    • Dr. Chukwuemeka I. Anene (OD) - Assistant Project Manager

    Dr. Anene is a graduate of Optometry with a Doctor of Optometry degree from the Abia state university Uturu in 2005. He graduated on top of his class and won different awards which included the best graduating student in the College of Medicine and Health Sciences and department of Optometry, Abia State University. Before coming to Florida eye Clinic, he has worked in several top notch eye hospitals in Nigeria and has vast experience in eye care. He is a member of the Nigerian Optometric Association and has participated in several seminars and conferences at different levels.

    CONFERENCES/WORKSHOPS ATTENDED

    Social Welfare Network Initiative

    Business Hours

    • Mon. - Fri. 8am to 5pm
    • Sat. - 8am to 11am
    • Sun. - Closed

    Contact Information

    Address:
    C10 SYSAK PLAZA 5213 ROAD, OPP. RCCG – OVERCOMERS PARISH, GWARIMPA, ABUJA

    Phone:
    08182802072

    Email:
    info@socialwelfarenetworkinitiative.org

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