Nigeria, a nation teeming with unsung heroes and heroines, often overlooks the vulnerable ones within its society—the orphans and abandoned kids. Amidst the hustle and bustle, one remarkable woman stood out, dedicating her life to turning tears into joy for countless children. Meet Mama Janet Ekundayo, often hailed as the Mother Theresa of Africa, whose selfless commitment to caring for orphans left an indelible mark on the hearts of many.
Mama Ekundayo, a name resonating with the Yoruba translation of ‘tears turned to joy,’ embodied the true essence of her moniker. Her journey began in 1969 when she made a life-altering decision to dedicate the rest of her days to caring for orphans and abandoned children. Despite being a mother to five children of her own, her love for children knew no bounds.
Over the years, Mama Ekundayo adopted an astounding 469th child by 2007, earning her the affectionate nickname “Olomo yeye,” meaning someone with many children. Her lifestyle mirrored the meaning of her name, symbolizing the transformation of tears into boundless joy for the countless children under her care.
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For more than 50 years, Mama Janet Ekundayo ran the Ekundayo Orphanage Home in Isanlu Makutu, Kogi state, making her one of the most influential women in Kogi’s history. Her impact reached far and wide, touching the lives of over 500 children, including the now-renowned Nigerian Singer and Photographer TY Bello.
Mama Ekundayo’s famous words echoed the humility and grace with which she approached her life’s mission. “Emi ko, ishe Oluwa ni” (meaning: It is not by my efforts but by the grace of God) adorned the entrance of her orphanage, a testament to her reliance on a higher power. Her mantra, “Bawo ni mashe jeun nigba ti gbogbo awon omo mi o ri je, ti won rimu?” (meaning: How can I eat when all my children are starving?), illustrated her unwavering dedication to the well-being of every child under her roof.
Amidst her joyful journey, Mama Ekundayo left behind words of wisdom, encouraging others to let their talents flourish. “Eje fogo Olorun han, ma se bo talenti mo le rara, eje fogo olorun han” (Let your talent flourish, don’t hide it) encapsulated her belief that caring for children was her unique talent, one she openly shared with the world.
In 2009, Mama Ekundayo’s journey on earth came to an end, leaving a void in the hearts of those who knew her. Believed to be an octogenarian or a nonagenarian, her legacy lives on through the impact she made on countless lives.
While many may not have known Mama Janet Ekundayo during her lifetime, her story became widely recognized when TY Bello, a popular Nigerian artist, produced a video and song in her honor. Later featured on Mo Abudu’s program, Moments with Mo, Mama Ekundayo’s prayers for a successor were answered by her daughter, Grace, who continues the noble mission started by her mother.
Mama Janet Ekundayo, a beacon of love and hope, deserves to be celebrated for her enduring legacy—a testament to the transformative power of selfless dedication to the most vulnerable among us. May her story inspire others to recognize the unsung heroes in their midst and strive to make a difference in the lives of those who need it most.