Since 1998, God has allowed us to serve many individuals of Southeast Nigeria. It all started because of a pair of shoes...

Our Story

In the heart of southern Nigeria, during the turbulence of the Nigerian Civil War (1967–1970), an 8-year-old girl named Chi discovered both the hardship of poverty and the power of compassion. Amid widespread starvation and homelessness, Chi received her first pair of shoes—a rare gift that symbolized hope in the midst of despair. Overwhelmed with gratitude, she brought them to school, eager to share the joy with her classmates, allowing each child to try them on. In that moment, a dream took root: to one day ensure that every child in her village could experience the dignity of being cared for.

That dream never left her.

Chi pursued her education with determination, earning a Bachelor's degree in Education in Nigeria. Her journey then led her to the United States, where she obtained a Master’s degree in School Counseling from Georgia State University and began her professional career at Georgia Agape—a faith-based social services agency in Atlanta. There, she deepened her commitment to serving vulnerable children and families, especially those in foster care.

Her passion for holistic care and community empowerment guided her next steps, culminating in a PhD in Child and Family Development from the University of Georgia in 2000. While conducting dissertation research in Nigeria in 1998, Chi began laying the foundation for what would become Right Steps, Inc.

What started as a seed of compassion has grown into a life-changing ministry. Today, Right Steps serves as a vital source of spiritual, educational, and practical support to underserved communities in southeast Nigeria. Chi continues to travel to Nigeria multiple times a year to provide leadership and ensure that the core mission—rooted in faith and service—remains at the heart of every program.

Right Steps is more than a mission. It’s the continuation of a little girl’s dream to bring hope, dignity, and opportunity to those who need it most.