The Irish Red Cross was delighted to assist Samson in reuniting with his wife, Adenike, and their children after years of separation. Originally from Nigeria, Samson approached our Restoring Family Links (RFL) service seeking help to trace his family, whom he believed were in Ireland. They lost contact in 2021 when they were living in Lagos, Nigeria. During this time, Samson was abducted on his way home from work, forcing Adenike to flee with their children to ensure their safety.

After regaining his freedom, Samson made his way to Ireland in early April 2024. His journey was sparked by seeing a photo of his wife and youngest child on the internet, celebrating St. Patrick’s Day here. Upon arriving, he contacted the Irish Red Cross RFL service, and we immediately began working to locate his family. We successfully found them at Bridgewater House, a direct provision centre in Carrick-on-Suir, in Co. Tipperary.

The Irish Red Cross collaborated directly with the centre manager, Pat Power, facilitating Samson’s reconnection with his family. After three long years apart, they finally saw each other again.

Samson says, “I am grateful to the Irish Red Cross for their help in locating my family, and I am so happy to be reunited with them.”