By Bunmi Yekini
“Nothing gives me more joy than seeing a young person turn away from addiction and embrace a responsible life.” — Lady Judith Eyegho
For two decades, Lady Ambassador Judith Edirin Eyegho, founder of Shalom Vineyard Initiative, has dedicated her life to transforming young people in Nigeria and across West Africa. With a background in sociology, public and international affairs, and humanitarian service, her journey has been marked by resilience, passion, and an unwavering commitment to youth empowerment and drug abuse awareness.
A Vision That Began with a Call
Shalom Vineyard Initiative was inaugurated on March 10, 2005, by the late First Lady of Nigeria, Chief Mrs. Stella Obasanjo, under the theme “Catch Them Young for a Greater Nigeria.” The program, which started in Lagos and Delta State, aimed to educate youths on the dangers of drug abuse.
Lady Eyegho recalls the moment with gratitude:
“Honestly, I never expected a response when we wrote to the First Lady’s office, but to my surprise, she not only responded but graced the event. It was a testament to her character and passion for national development.”
Over the years, the initiative expanded across West African countries through its ECOWAS Youth Summit, where diplomats and young people discuss pressing social and economic issues. The summit fosters regional peace, leadership development, and youth inclusion in decision-making. It has been held at prestigious venues, including the ECOWAS Parliament in Abuja and the Nigeria Institute of International Affairs.
Challenges and Triumphs in Humanitarian Work
Running a self-sustaining NGO without government funding has been a significant challenge. Unlike NGOs linked to political figures, which receive substantial support, private humanitarian organizations often struggle with resources.
“If you think running an NGO is a fast track to wealth, think again,” Lady Eyegho cautions. “We rely on the passion to serve, not financial backing. Funding remains our biggest challenge, but God always raises like-minded individuals to support us.”
Despite financial hurdles, Shalom Vineyard Initiative has built trusted partnerships with various organizations, including the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), NDLEA, NAFDAC, and UNESCO. The organization’s Let’s Unplug Camp Meeting equips youths with entrepreneurial skills, reducing crime and unemployment, while their community healthcare programs promote well-being among the elderly and youth.
A Plea for More Support
Lady Eyegho calls on the government and corporate organizations to support functional NGOs.
“Renting venues for our programs has become almost impossible, with some halls costing over five million naira. How do self-sustaining NGOs afford this? We need support from the government and well-meaning individuals.”
She also urges first ladies to use their offices for national development, regardless of political affiliations.
“The office of the First Lady should be open to all right-thinking citizens who have ideas for national progress. Our past first ladies, like Stella Obasanjo and Mariam Babangida, understood this.”
A New Era of Youth Empowerment
As Shalom Vineyard Initiative marks its 20th anniversary, the organization is expanding its vision beyond organizing summits. Plans are underway to establish a Conflict Resolution and Skill Civic Centre in Delta State, which will serve as a hub for youth leadership and economic empowerment.
Additionally, the upcoming ECOWAS Youth Summit 2025 will commemorate ECOWAS’s 50th anniversary, focusing on “Empowering the Next Generation: The Role of Youth in Advancing ECOWAS Vision 2050.”
“We are optimistic,” Lady Eyegho says. “By God’s grace, we will continue to create opportunities for young people and foster lasting peace in the region.”
For those inspired by this journey, Lady Eyegho has one final piece of advice:
“Be patient, be resilient, and never prioritize wealth over service. The real reward is in the lives you transform.”