What began as a heartfelt effort by four siblings to preserve the legacy of their late parents has evolved into one of Lagos’ most impactful family-driven humanitarian initiatives, as the AKEM Foundation marked its 4th anniversary with the empowerment of five young entrepreneurs through over ₦6 million in business grants.
The grand anniversary event, held in Lagos on May 9, attracted an array of distinguished personalities including the Managing Director/CEO of First Bank of Nigeria, Mr. Olusegun Alebiosu, two retired Deputy Inspectors-General of Police, four Assistant Inspectors-General of Police, military generals, commissioners of police, diplomats, business leaders, academics, and members of the civil society.
Founded by Dr. Ayodele Ogunsan alongside his siblings Abiodun, Aduke, and Folorunsho Ogunsan the AKEM Foundation was established in honour of their late parents, Engr. Akinola Ogunsan and Madam Emiola Ogunsan, whose values of education, entrepreneurship, discipline, and compassion continue to inspire the initiative.
From supporting just four organisations at inception in 2023, the foundation has expanded into a broader intervention platform focusing on education, entrepreneurship, youth mentorship, social welfare, and community transformation
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Speaking at the event, Chairman of AKEM Foundation, Dr. Ayodele Ogunsan, reflected emotionally on the enduring influence of their parents and the family’s determination to sustain their values through impactful humanitarian work.
According to him, the initiative was born out of a desire to continue the legacies of their parents, particularly their passion for education and entrepreneurship.
“One of my parents, my dad, was passionate about education while my mother was deeply passionate about entrepreneurship. That inspired us to support people who lack opportunities either academically or in business,” he said.
Dr. Ogunsan disclosed that this year’s business empowerment competition attracted 71 applications which were screened down to five finalists through a transparent selection process.
The five finalists pitched their business ideas before a four-man panel comprising banking, academic, medical, and public sector professionals in the presence of over 300 guests.
At the end of the contest, Adetolani Amokaye emerged as the overall winner, receiving a ₦1.5 million grant which was later upgraded to over ₦2 million through additional donations from dignitaries.
Adeola Deborah Agboola secured second place with her ₦1.25 million prize also upgraded to nearly ₦2 million, while third-place winner Nkechi Gift received additional support from members of the Chinese community who immediately placed over 100 orders for her sweet potato products and offered assistance in packaging and agricultural supply.
Other beneficiaries included Ekom Gideon Fidelis and Ajala Tiyinoluwa Busola, who also received financial support and business assistance.
In his remarks, Managing Director/CEO of AKEM Foundation, Mr. Abiodun Ogunsan, said the organisation remains committed to building hope and creating opportunities for young Nigerians.
“We are not just building an organisation; we are building hope, transforming lives, and shaping a future where no dream is limited by lack of opportunity,” he stated.
The event drew high-profile dignitaries from the security, military, business, diplomatic, and religious communities, including retired DIGs Agboola Oshodi-Glover and Bode Adeleke; retired AIGs Hakeem Odumosu, Lanre Bankole, and Yetunde Longe; AIG Zone 2, AIG Olohundare Jimoh; Lagos State Commissioner of Police, CP Fatai Tijani; Commander of 9 Brigade Nigerian Army, Brig. Gen. A.O. Owolabi; and Commander of NNS Beecroft, Commodore Adams-Aliu, among many others.
Goodwill messages poured in from dignitaries who described the AKEM Foundation as a model initiative capable of inspiring other families and organisations to invest in social impact and youth empowerment.
Deputy Chief of Staff to the Lagos State Governor, Dr. Sam Egube, commended the initiative, noting that societal transformation becomes possible when individuals contribute positively, regardless of scale.
Similarly, the MD/CEO of First Bank Nigeria Plc, Mr. Olusegun Alebiosu, praised the Ogunsan family for their generosity and commitment to uplifting lives.
“The heart that gives is the heart of gold. Everything we have becomes meaningful when we use it to impact others positively,” he remarked.
Retired senior police officers and military commanders also applauded the consistency of the initiative and urged more Nigerians to embrace philanthropy and legacy-building through meaningful community interventions.
In an era where memorial events are often reduced to lavish ceremonies, the Ogunsans have continued to distinguish themselves by transforming remembrance into sustainable social impact, using the AKEM Foundation as a vehicle for empowerment, mentorship, and hope for the next generation.