Our Success Story | Steven Agahnti: A Journey of Strength, Community, and Success

Diagnosed with Osteogenesis Imperfecta at age 3, Steven underwent life-changing surgery in the UK thanks to public support. Now 22, he celebrates graduating with a BSc degree in Computer Games Technology, building a bright future and giving back to others facing the same challenges.

Steven Agahnti’s story is one of extraordinary resilience against overwhelming odds, marked by global impact and the power of collective support.

Born in Nigeria, Steven faced the painful realities of Osteogenesis Imperfecta (OI)—commonly known as brittle bone disease—from an early age. In a country where awareness of the condition was limited, doctors struggled to understand or diagnose the cause of his frequent fractures. By the time he was three, Steven had already endured over 100 bone fractures, often without adequate medical care or answers.

His life took a dramatic turn after moving to the UK, where he was finally diagnosed. On 25th June 2008, the St Albans & Harpenden Review published a community fundraising appeal “PUSH TO HELP STEVEN WALK” to help fund Steven’s first corrective surgery at Great Ormond Street Hospital. With the generous support of local donors and the Brittle Bone Society (BBS)—a UK charity dedicated to supporting those affected by OI—the surgery was made possible, marking a pivotal step toward a better quality of life. https://www.stalbansreview.co.uk/news/2363249.push-to-help-steven-walk/

Now 23 and living in the UK, Steven has graduated with a BSc in Computer Games Technology from Birmingham City University. His success in higher education is a reflection not only of his determination but also of the steadfast love and support he received from his family, friends, Bethany Community Church in Harpenden, and countless others along the way.

“From hospital beds to a university lecture hall, my journey has been shaped by kindness, faith, resilience and perseverance,” Steven says. “I’m especially thankful to the Brittle Bone Society for being the bridge to a new beginning.”

But Steven’s story doesn’t end with personal triumph. Together with his family—and with tremendous support from the Brittle Bone Society (BBS)—their journey has sparked something even greater: the creation of the Osteogenesis Imperfecta Foundation Network, a pioneering organisation now supporting OI families across Nigeria and Africa. The network provides education, resources, and advocacy. It raises awareness of the condition and gives a voice to those who, like Steven once was, are navigating the world of brittle bone without answers.

Through his experience, Steven, together with his mum, Tarela, has not only rewritten his son’s future but is now helping to shape others’ futures across continents.

“I know what it feels like to suffer in silence, without a diagnosis or direction,” he says. “Our hope is that no child in Africa has to go through what we went through—alone.”

As he sets his sights on a career in game development, Steven’s legacy is already being built—one of courage, community, and compassion.

To support the Osteogenesis Imperfecta Foundation Network or learn more about Osteogenesis Imperfecta, visit www.oifn.org