Baobab MFB backs anti-drug fight with Ogun rehab centre

Baobab Microfinance Bank has reinforced its commitment to inclusive growth and social impact by partnering with the Compassionate Care Recovery Initiative to establish a dedicated female rehabilitation and reintegration facility, Deborah’s Haven, in Opako, Adigbe, Abeokuta, Ogun State.

The initiative addresses the urgent need to support women affected by substance dependency, many of whom face stigma and limited access to structured recovery systems, by providing a safe space for healing, empowerment, and reintegration into society.

The partnership reflects Baobab’s commitment to Corporate Social Responsibility, ensuring that its impact extends beyond financial services to address critical social challenges that affect economic participation.

Speaking at the commissioning, the Board Member, Baobab Microfinance Bank, Eneni Oduwole, highlighted the deeper purpose behind the intervention. Oduwole said, “At Baobab Microfinance Bank Nigeria, we often speak about our Triple P commitment: People, Planet, and Profit.

Today, Deborah’s Haven stands as a living expression of that commitment. Everyone deserves a second chance. This belief is not merely philosophical; it is central to how we operate, how we invest, and how we engage with society.

“Deborah’s Haven will provide a structured recovery journey that integrates rehabilitation with empowerment. Beneficiaries will have access to psychosocial support, skills development programmes, and reintegration pathways designed to help them rebuild their confidence and re-enter society with dignity.”

The CEO of Baobab Microfinance Bank Nigeria, Eric Ntumba, emphasised the long-term vision of the project, noting, “we understand that true economic growth is only possible when no one is left behind. By investing in women at a vulnerable point in their lives, we are not just changing individual stories; we are strengthening families, communities, and the broader economy. As the facility opens its doors, it stands as a symbol of new beginnings, offering women the opportunity to heal, grow, and reclaim their futures.”

Also speaking at the event, the Chairman of the bank, Rotimi Oyekanmi, said that according to the statistics, the challenge of drugs and substance abuse is huge in the country.

He said the bank recognises that only coordinated and collaborative efforts can significantly reduce the burden, which is why it chose to support the CCRI in rehabilitating individuals affected by drug abuse, particularly women, and helping them rebuild their lives and realise their potential.

Emphasising the essence of the collaboration, the CEO of CCRI, Dr Dokun Adedeji, commended the partnership and its potential impact on the battle against drug and substance abuse in the country. Adedeji said, “This collaboration is a powerful reminder that recovery is not a journey anyone should walk alone. With Baobab’s support, we can provide not just care but a clear pathway for women to rediscover their strength, rebuild their lives, and reintegrate into society with renewed purpose.”

He added the sponsorships like this from corporate organisations will go a long way to stop the malignant spread of substance abuse and its attendant implications.

Baobab Microfinance Bank sees this initiative as a long-term investment in inclusive development, one that recognises the multiplier effect of empowering women.