AKEM Foundation, a non-governmental organization, marked its fourth anniversary with a national discussion on parenting, discipline, and values, alongside an empowerment program that awarded more than N6 million in grants to five business start-ups. The event, held in Lagos, brought together stakeholders from security, academic, business, diplomatic, faith, and civil society sectors to celebrate the foundation's contributions to education, entrepreneurship, and social development.
Foundation's Origins and Growth
Founded by Dr. Ayodele Ogunsan and his siblings Abiodun, Aduke, and Folorunsho Ogunsan, the foundation was established in honor of their late parents, Akinola Ogunsan and Madam Emiola Ogunsan. Their values of education, discipline, enterprise, and compassion inspired the initiative. From supporting four organizations in 2023, the foundation expanded its interventions to include education, entrepreneurship, and business empowerment by 2025. It has evolved into a structured humanitarian platform focused on education, social welfare, enterprise development, youth mentorship, and community transformation.
Chairman's Remarks
Speaking at the event, Chairman of the foundation, Dr. Ayodele Ogunsan, said the initiative was driven by the values and passions of their parents. 'One of my parents, my father, was passionate about education and the other, my mother, was passionate about entrepreneurship. So we started this journey by putting our resources together to help people who do not have opportunities to progress either academically or in sustaining their businesses,' he explained. Ogunsan detailed that the grant process was conducted through an open competition, with 71 applications received, reduced to 46, then 21, before five finalists emerged. The first prize winner received N1.5 million, while the second, third, fourth, and fifth prizes were N1.25 million, N1 million, N750,000, and N500,000 respectively.
CEO's Commitment
Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the foundation, Mr. Abiodun Ogunsan, reiterated the organization's commitment to education, entrepreneurship, and sustainable empowerment. He noted that the foundation seeks to equip young people with the capacity to overcome challenges and contribute positively to their communities.
Grant Competition Winners
During the event, the five finalists presented their business ideas before a panel of judges and guests. Adetolani Amokaye emerged as the winner of the first prize, while Adeola Deborah Agboola came second. Nkechi Gift placed third, Ekom Gideon Fidelis came fourth, and Ajala Tiyinoluwa Busola finished fifth.
Patron's Praise
Patron of the foundation, retired Assistant Inspector-General of Police, Mr. Lanre Bankole, commended the initiative, describing it as a meaningful way of preserving the memory of the founders' parents while supporting vulnerable members of society. He said the foundation had distinguished itself through its commitment to social impact and empowerment.
