GAMAID
- July 24, 2025
Anchored in Hope: Affiong Udofia’s Testimonies of Faith and Provision
Testimony 1
My journey with GAMAID began shortly after I gave my life to Christ during my first year at university. Every time I returned home for the holidays, I found myself stumbling spiritually—old acquaintances and former habits would resurface, and I had no firm footing to stand on in my walk with God. It quickly became clear that it would be wiser to remain in Uyo during those breaks, yet I had no idea where I would live or how I would afford rent and utilities when my parents were miles away in Owerri.
That’s when help arrived like a beacon in the night. GAMAID began to provide me with accommodation support during school holidays, and that simple gift changed everything. Living with other believers during those breaks became one of the greatest catalysts for my spiritual growth. In that communal setting, accountability took root, structure formed in my daily routine, and deep fellowship flourished. We studied the Bible together, we prayed together, and we faithfully watched over one another’s spiritual progress, encouraging each other to remain steadfast in Christ.
Staying behind in Uyo also opened doors of opportunity that I could never have imagined. I was able to find holiday work that eased the financial burden on my parents and gave me a sense of dignity and purpose. Beyond that, I engaged in Bible classes—first as a learner, and then, over time, as a teacher—participating actively in evangelism and discipleship. What began as a practical necessity soon became a natural part of my identity; many people assumed my biological parents lived in Uyo because I had found a true family here. From residing in a sister’s rented apartment to moving into family homes and even serving as a house head, each season of relocation marked another chapter of personal and spiritual growth.
Today, I can say with confidence that Uyo is my home—not because of birth or blood, but because of the spiritual family that surrounds me. I have experienced the blessings of shared devotion, been cared for when I fell ill, learned how to cook hearty meals for large groups, and been provided for even when I had nothing left. My parents have often marveled at how I thrived; I vividly recall my father telling me he never feared I would compromise my convictions for money—he trusted that I was safeguarded in loving hands.
The story did not end with me alone. When my sister gave her life to Christ, she too was embraced by GAMAID’s support system. Today, both of us stand firm in the Lord, free from the temptations that once threatened to pull us away. Even when I travel out of town, I know exactly where to call home in Uyo—the heart of my spiritual family. For all of this and more, I am profoundly grateful. Thank you, GAMAID, for giving me a safe haven to hide, a community in which to grow, and the freedom to become who I am today.
Testimony 2
Hmmm… I don’t even know where to begin. After I gained admission into the university, life became extremely hard almost immediately. I could easily go through an entire semester—three to four months—on just ₦5,000 from my parents. That was all they could manage to send me, and those small funds were meant to cover tuition sundries, meals, and personal expenses alike.
My first and second years were marked by tears and sleepless nights. Although I had just surrendered my life to Christ and resolved to obey God fully—even refusing to compromise my values by following men for financial gain—the looming question haunted me: How would I survive without any meaningful support from home?
Then, as if sent by divine provision, help arrived through a sister from church who volunteered with GAMAID and happened to be my roommate in the hostel. She generously included me in her feeding allowance, made sure I never missed a meal, and even gave me small weekly stipends to cover incidental costs. Before long, GAMAID itself stepped in directly: they provided transport funds to ensure I could return to campus after each break, and when I had to move back into the hostel from a family house, they gifted me both a feeding allowance and money for essential school supplies.
There was a time when my phone screen cracked and ink stains spread across the display, rendering it almost unusable. Through my pastor, the Foundation sent me the funds needed for a replacement device. Today, I’m typing this very testimony on that same phone—a tangible reminder of their kindness and care.
Perhaps the most critical moment came when my mother fell seriously ill and was hospitalized. With no money in our pockets and fear of amputation looming over her, I found myself utterly alone in that hospital ward—until GAMAID sent a cash gift that covered her medical bills. That timely support turned a desperate situation around, and today my mother walks without any impediment, her recovery a living testimony of God’s mercy.
Over the years, I have received countless gifts—cash, accommodation, and regular meals. I cannot even calculate the thousands of naira poured into my life; these were never favors from relatives, but acts of kindness from people who didn’t know me at all. Such selfless love is rare in this world.
“Thank you” hardly seems enough to express my gratitude. My prayer is that God blesses GAMAID and every vessel they use to bring hope and provision. May the Lord continue to multiply your resources and sustain your compassionate ministry, just as you have sustained me.