All through six gruesome weeks of COVID-19 lockdown in Nigeria, even as Federal and State governments bungled the grinding task of sharing palliatives to the country’s most vulnerable masses, one strategic collaboration between non-government organisations (NGOs) stood out as it fed over 25,000 people across Lagos State and its immediate environs.
Leveraging on the expertise gained from 11 years of battling hunger through its community kitchen, free school meals, family meals and zero hunger programmes, FoodClique Support Initiative led by its CEO, Bolajoko Fadipe partnered with Noella Foundation led by Seyi Tinubu to distribute neatly packed edibles (dry cook-able foods) in print-branded brown cartons expertly despatched by tireless volunteers in buses, cars, motorbikes and bicycles to locations both near and far flung from the NGO’s operational base in Yaba, Lagos State. Their campaign is tagged “We are #strongertogether.”
The COVID-19 exploits of FoodClique and Noella Foundation in helping government combat hunger among the helpless, drew the attention of Nigeria’s Vice President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, who commended the charity organisation via video conferencing in March 2020 with Fadipe. The FoodClique/Noella Foundation volunteers also got invited to the Lagos State Government House in April 2020 where they got the commendation of Governor Babajide Sanwoolu, his wife and his COVID-19 workforce.
In a media statement issued by Dr. Kunle Hamilton, a FoodClique partner and communication consultant, Fadipe explained how the FoodClique idea was born 11 years ago and the increasing strategic partnerships that have helped them fight hunger in the land, thanks to their teeming volunteers.
“On my birthday 11 years ago” Fadipe said, instead of rejoicing with friends, I felt a stronger urge to feed the poor and homeless and that’s exactly what I did. Fast forward to March 2020, at FoodClique, we were still contemplating our usual free community kitchen for the less privileged, until the realities of COVID-19 hit all of us.
“Our slogan at FoodClique is that hunger has a voice and with COVID-19, we heard hunger’s voice loud and clear. And we are grateful to God for the partnership of Noella Foundation chaired by Mr. Seyi Tinubu whose financial commitment and enormous goodwill extended our capacity to feed tens of thousands of vulnerable Nigerians.”
Speaking about the commitment of Noella Foundation to this humanitarian gesture, Seyi Tinubu said “It is our duty to give back to the society and I’m always hands on to help because I know the situation we are in right now is not an easy one, especially for business owners. But with our collective effort, we will achieve a lot more.”
Confident and excited, FoodClique CEO Fadipe concluded by saying, “We are grateful to God that after 11 years of our transparency and commitment to feeding the vulnerable in our society, a good number of organisations have teamed up with FoodClique to help us defeat hunger in our land.
“Throughout the COVID-19 lockdown, we have been packing and distributing food boxes from the sanitized auditorium of CCC PraiseVille and ShaddaiVille Ministries at no cost. We could not have met the growing number of daily emergency boxes without our partners, donors, volunteers and Praiseville – a church hall, which has become a vital link in the distribution chain for our emergency food boxes for the vulnerable in the society. Indeed, we are stronger together and this is what must define us as Nigerians at this crucial time in our history.”
FoodClique and Noella Foundation food boxes got to communities like Spencer and Borno Way in Yaba, Makoko, Ebute Metta, Akoka, Iponri, Lagos Island, Bariga, Agege, Epe, Badagry, Ikorodu, Alimosho, Igando, Igbogbo, Festac, Oshodi, Ikotun, Ojuelegba, Surulere, Ijede, Ajah, Ojo and Iyana Ipaja among others.
The City of Brampton has recognised Alhaji Ibrahim Dende Egungbohun for his remarkable contributions to a transformative initiative designed to empower women through essential skill-building for independence and self-reliance. This formal acknowledgment took place on August 15, 2025, in Mayor Patrick Brown’s office during a visit from the Africa Made Economic Growth Initiative (AMEGI) team. Represented by his wife, Mrs. Omolara Egungbohun, Alhaji Dende received the certification amidst an atmosphere of gratitude and celebration. Mayor Brown presented the certificate personally and extended his commendations to the IBD Foundation for their relentless pursuit of women’s empowerment, development, and their philanthropic efforts.
The Certificate of Recognition underscored Egungbohun’s unwavering dedication and tireless efforts to create diverse opportunities for women to enhance their skills, develop their potential, and ultimately prosper in their personal and professional lives. As a philanthropist, esteemed businessman, and influential social figure, his impact in Nigeria and beyond is both profound and far-reaching.
Egungbohun’s generosity and steadfast commitment have significantly bolstered the confidence of program participants, facilitating their ability to envision and construct brighter futures while strengthening community ties. In his acknowledgment, Mayor Brown stated, “Your dedication uplifts those working to inspire others,” highlighting the deep and lasting influence of Egungbohun’s work in empowering women.
This initiative is not just a standalone effort; it harmonizes perfectly with Brampton’s broader mission to advocate for and uplift marginalized groups within the community. Egungbohun’s contributions serve as a vital catalyst for transformative change, offering practical skills that enhance employability while reshaping the economic and social framework for women. Through an assortment of workshops, mentorship programs, and robust support networks, he has fostered an encouraging environment where women can fully explore and realize their potential.
As Brampton steadfastly commits itself to promoting inclusivity and equity, leaders like Egungbohun exemplify how collaboration, vision, and genuine enthusiastic engagement can effectively turn hopes and aspirations into tangible realities. The public acknowledgment from the city not only honors individual efforts but also sends a resounding message, inspiring other community leaders and stakeholders to step up and invest in grassroots empowerment initiatives that uplift and serve those in need. This recognition is a clarion call for collective action toward a more equitable and inclusive society.
Tayo Folorunsho Nominated as Celebrity Special Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Corps
Tayo Folorunsho, renowned youth ambassador and edutainment advocate, has been officially nominated to be decorated as a Celebrity Special Marshal (CSM) of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC).
The unveiling took place at the recently concluded FRSC Youth Hangout, held in celebration of the United Nations International Youth Day at the National Judicial Institute, Abuja.
Over the years, Tayo Folorunsho has distinguished himself as a passionate youth leader, consistently driving initiatives that inspire and empower young people. His recognition as a Celebrity Special Marshal is not only a mark of honor but also a call to responsibility—championing road safety, responsibility, and positive change within society.
Speaking on the recognition, Tayo Folorunsho emphasized:
“This is more than an honor; it is a responsibility to use my voice and influence to promote safety, responsibility, and positive change on our roads.”
This milestone reinforces his commitment to youth empowerment, social responsibility, and nation-building through edutainment and advocacy.
FRSC Partners with Edutainment First International to Drive Road Safety Awareness in Nigeria
In a country where road accidents claim thousands of lives each year—most of them young people—the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) and Edutainment First International have launched a bold new initiative to change the narrative. On Thursday, August 14, both organizations hosted the maiden Road Safety Youth Hangout at the National Judicial Institute, Abuja.
The event, held to mark United Nations International Youth Day 2025, brought together more than 300 participants, including members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), students, youth leaders, and community representatives. Unlike traditional road safety campaigns, the hangout was designed as an interactive forum blending education and entertainment, where young Nigerians could learn, innovate, and commit to safer road practices.
According to FRSC data, young people remain the most vulnerable demographic in road traffic crashes across Nigeria—an urgent concern this initiative aims to tackle. Through storytelling, innovation, and collaborative problem-solving, the Road Safety Youth Hangout sought to transform young Nigerians into advocates for safety within their communities.
“This is not just about rules and regulations,” said one of the organizers. “It’s about equipping young people with the tools and the voice to change Nigeria’s road culture.”
Aligned with the UN’s 2025 theme, “Local Youth Actions for the SDGs and Beyond,” the program underscored the critical role of young Nigerians in advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those connected to health, safety, and responsible citizenship.
By focusing on empowerment rather than enforcement, FRSC and Edutainment First International signaled a fresh approach to road safety: investing in the next generation as the real drivers of change. The belief is simple yet powerful—an informed and empowered youth population is key to reducing accidents and saving lives.
For many participants, the hangout was more than just an event; it was a wake-up call. With interactive sessions infused with music, drama, and dialogue, young Nigerians were challenged to reflect on their daily habits as road users and to embrace leadership as advocates for safer communities.
As one youth participant reflected:
“Road safety isn’t just the job of the FRSC. It’s our responsibility too—because we are the ones most at risk.”
The maiden edition of the Road Safety Youth Hangout may have ended, but the movement it launched has only just begun. Its message was unmistakable: Nigeria’s fight for safer roads must be youth-led, collaborative, and relentless.