The Chairman of Ajeromi-Ifelodun Local Government, Lagos State, Hon Fatai Adekunle Ayoola, and the Olu of Iwa and Apapa Kingdom, Oba Moroof Amodu Tijani-Oluwa, among others, have lauded the Olawale Haruna Ariyo Foundation (OHAF), a non-governmental organization, for its significant contributions to the people of the local government and the Lagos State at large.
They expressed their appreciation, stating that the foundation’s efforts are substantial and highly impactful.
The commendation took place at an event organized by the Foundation to commemorate its 10th anniversary recently.
During the event, approximately 200 pupils from 48 public primary schools in the local government area, hailing from less privileged homes, were provided with free school uniforms by the foundation.
In separate remarks, the council’s chairman, represented by his deputy, Lucky Udukhue, and the monarch, expressed their particular satisfaction with the positive testimonies people shared about the Foundation’s impact on their lives and communities.
They emphasised the importance and reward of touching the lives of the less privileged and vulnerable in underserved communities.
The monarch further urged other well-meaning individuals in society to emulate the Foundation and its founder, encouraging them to contribute to the betterment of humanity.
He argued that such gestures would positively ripple effect on related economic activities, thereby improving the country’s economy.
In his welcome address, the Founder and CEO of the Foundation, Alhaji Olawale Ariyo, who comes from a humble background himself, reflected on the foundation’s achievements. He stated, “We have touched people’s lives in many ways. We have awarded many children scholarships, rehabilitated roads, donated transformers, and supported many youths in sports and entertainment.
Today, on Valentine’s Day, we are giving out free school uniforms to about 200 pupils from 48 public primary schools within the local government. Our Foundation believes that supporting children in this way is crucial to preparing them for the future because they are truly our future.”
Ariyo pledged that through the Foundation, he would continue to contribute to humanity and God’s work.
During a keynote address on the topic “Education through Love: Impacting the future of Ajeromi-Ifelodun LG pupils,” Mr. Tunbosun Ogundare, an Assistant Editor with Nigerian Tribune, emphasized that the best legacy for any child, regardless of family background, is education that includes quality training.
He stressed the importance of instilling good character in children, which, combined with God’s support, would go a long way in securing a bright future for Nigerian children.
Among other dignitaries in attendance were Akanbi Oluwa, a member of the Lagos House of Assembly representing Ajeromi Ifelodun Constituency 2; Ariyo’s wife, Hajia Khadeejat Ariyo; Vice-chairman, APC, Ajeromi Ifelodun LG, Alhaji Gbenga Bakare; chairman, NUT, Ajeromi-Ifelodun LGA, Mr. Lebile Adeniyi; Baale of Ajegunle, High Chief Gbengbeleku; and Baale of Alayabiagba, High Chief Yahya Adesina Ojora, among others.