The KOL Foundation took a giant step forward in its mission towards redefining Nigeria’s developmental landscape with its recently concluded Partnership Accelerator and Launch event on Thursday, December 5, 2024.

Held at the Ecobank Pan African Center in Lagos, with the theme “Partnerships:

The Tool We Need for National Development”, the event brought together a constellation of thought leaders, policymakers, and changemakers united by a shared vision for progress and addressing Nigeria’s most pressing developmental challenges.

The launch was graced by an impressive array of dignitaries, Honorable Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Lagos State, Mobolaji Abubakre Ogunlende; H.E. Abubakar Atiku, GCON, former Vice President of Nigeria, represented by Abdul-Azeez Olajide Adediran (Jandor), Chairman, Lagos4Lagos Movement; Mr Nduka Obiagbena CON, Chairman & CEO, Thisday Arise Group; Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour, Political Leader; Femi Olubanwo, Managing Partner, Banwo & Ighodalo; Shola Mogaji, Media Executive & SustainabilityChampion and Several others. Renowned comperes Gbenga Adeyinka and Mojibade Sosanya, expertly moderated the flow of activities with their wit and charm.

Khadijah Okunnu-Lamidi, Chairman and Project Champion of the KOL Foundation, set the tone with a compelling welcome address, she said “I once thought change was solely the domain of politics, but my journey into grassroots development taught me the true power of philanthropy—a love for humanity expressed through giving time, talent, and resources.

By addressing core issues like clean water, education, and health, and through partnerships with individuals, organizations, and government bodies, I’ve seen how collaboration can transform 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 create stronger, safer communities and deliver the promise of development to those who need it most.”

Delivering the keynote address, Mr. Yemi Candide-Johnson, SAN, Senior Partner at Candide-Johnson Law Practice and Trustee of the KOL Foundation, reinforced the message of collaborative impact, saying.

“The time has come for Nigeria’s elite to embrace the profound responsibility that comes with privilege.

It is not enough to stand apart from the challenges that plague our nation; we must lead the charge in transforming our communities.

The KOL Foundation has called 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 is spared.

Let us rise to the occasion, collaborating to build schools, healthcare centers, waste disposal plants and safe, community spaces that uplift every Nigerian.

This is our moment to redefine leadership as service and to prove that true progress starts with those who dare to lead by example.”

The KOL Foundation used the occasion to showcase its flagship initiatives, including clean water access, social housing, healthcare for the vulnerable, educational opportunities, and talent development.

These programs underscore KOL Foundation’s commitment to addressing critical issues with innovative, community-driven solutions.

As the event drew to a close, attendees were encouraged to support the Foundation’s mission by donating, volunteering, or partnering.

The KOL Foundation remains committed to galvanising collective action to create a future defined by dignity, equity, and opportunity for all.

For more information about the KOL Foundation and its initiatives, visit www.kolnigeria.com or email [email protected].