By The Society for Reconciliation of Nigerians in Distress (SORENID) has suffered severe structural damage following debris from a tanker explosion at Karu Bridge, Abuja. The blast, which occurred on March 19, 2025, claimed nine lives and destroyed around 30 vehicles.
Although no casualties were reported at SORENID, its CEO, Amb. Uchenna Okafor, has raised concerns about the impact of the destruction, especially with the rainy season approaching. “In the coming weeks, when the rains arrive, this place will be severely affected. It’s akin to pulling down the roof,” he warned.
Despite the extent of the damage, no government agency or emergency response team has offered assistance. “As an NGO, we lack the funds for reconstruction. This facility was inexpensive to build, but repairs are now beyond our capability,” Okafor stated. The disruption has left staff and beneficiaries anxious, with services coming to a standstill.
SORENID, which provides aid to vulnerable Nigerians, including refugees and the elderly, remains committed to its mission despite the setback. “We are not seeking compensation—just support to rebuild and continue our work. This place serves as a skills and professional centre, aiding young Nigerians in finding alternatives to migration,” Okafor explained.
The organization has received international support in the past, including from the German development agency GIZ, but it has never received direct government assistance. “We have trained shoemakers, barbers, and other professionals, yet we have never received any aid from the government,” Okafor noted.
With the rainy season fast approaching, SORENID is appealing to the government, private sector, and well-meaning individuals to step in and help restore its operations. “People are only just learning about what we do. We hope this will lead to more support so we can continue to aid Nigerians in distress,” Okafor said.
