The KOL Foundation made a significant stride in its mission to reshape Nigeria’s development landscape with the successful conclusion of its Partnership Accelerator and Launch event on Thursday, December 5, 2024.
Held at the Ecobank Pan African Center in Lagos, the event, themed “Partnerships: The Tool We Need for National Development,” brought together a distinguished group of thought leaders, policymakers, and changemakers united by a common vision to tackle Nigeria’s most urgent developmental challenges.
The launch featured an impressive array of dignitaries, including Honorable Mobolaji Abubakre Ogunlende, Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Lagos State; H.E. Abubakar Atiku, GCON, former Vice President of Nigeria, represented by Abdul-Azeez Olajide Adediran (Jandor), Chairman of Lagos4Lagos Movement; Mr. Nduka Obiagbena CON, Chairman & CEO of Thisday Arise Group; Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour, Political Leader; Femi Olubanwo, Managing Partner of Banwo & Ighodalo; Shola Mogaji, Media Executive & Sustainability Champion, among others. Renowned hosts Gbenga Adeyinka and Mojibade Sosanya expertly guided the event with their wit and charisma.
Khadijah Okunnu-Lamidi, Chairman and Project Champion of the KOL Foundation, set the tone with a heartfelt welcome address. She shared, “I once believed change was the domain of politics, but my journey into grassroots development revealed the true power of philanthropy—a love for humanity expressed through giving time, talent, and resources.
By addressing fundamental issues like clean water, education, and health, and forming partnerships with individuals, organizations, and government bodies, I’ve seen how collaboration can change lives. Giving isn’t exclusive to the wealthy; it’s a shared responsibility.
Today, I invite you to join me in uniting our networks and resources to build stronger, safer communities and bring development to those who need it most.”
In his keynote address, Mr. Yemi Candide-Johnson, SAN, Senior Partner at Candide-Johnson Law Practice and Trustee of the KOL Foundation, reinforced the importance of collaborative action. He emphasized, “The time has come for Nigeria’s elite to embrace the profound responsibility that comes with privilege.
It is no longer enough to stand apart from the challenges facing our nation; we must take the lead in transforming our communities.
The KOL Foundation has brought us together not to celebrate wealth or power, but to ignite a shared purpose—to align our resources, influence, and vision with the needs of our people.
If the boat sinks, none of us will be spared.
Let us rise to the occasion, working together to build schools, healthcare centers, waste disposal facilities, and safe community spaces that uplift every Nigerian.
This is our opportunity to redefine leadership as service and show that true progress begins with those who dare to lead by example.”
The KOL Foundation also highlighted its flagship initiatives, including providing access to clean water, social housing, healthcare for vulnerable groups, educational opportunities, and talent development. These initiatives showcase the Foundation’s commitment to addressing critical issues with innovative, community-focused solutions.
As the event came to a close, attendees were encouraged to contribute to the Foundation’s mission by donating, volunteering, or partnering. The KOL Foundation remains dedicated to driving collective action to create a future of dignity, equity, and opportunity for all.
For more information about the KOL Foundation and its initiatives, visit www.kolnigeria.com or email officialkolfoundation@gmail.com.
