Like many of the world’s underdeveloped nations, Nigeria has faced immense challenges in poverty over the years. The nation’s struggles have immensely deepened since the new government’s inauguration. With the soaring inflation rates and unprecedented levels of poverty caused by the ever-rising cost of Premium Motor Spirits (Fuel, Petrol), many Nigerians are grappling with daily survival. Everyone currently bears the brunt of these hardships but most of it is borne by the most vulnerable segments of our country – underprivileged communities.
Inflation has stripped the value of wages and savings, making us poorer each day. What you can afford today isn’t the same as what you can afford tomorrow. Basic necessities like food, fuel, and healthcare have become unaffordable for countless families. The cost of goods skyrockets and the suffering of the average Nigerian grows more daily. We have seen the toll this has taken on households, small businesses, and entire communities.
Despite these overwhelming challenges, there are glimmers of hope. Karim Adeyemi Foundation founded by the internationally renowned footballer Karim Adeyemi, has worked tirelessly for the past two years to support and uplift those in need, especially in Ibadan. Through his foundation, Karim Adeyemi has chosen to share what he has, offering aid to struggling families and individuals in his hometown.
This International Day of Charity therefore reminds me of the power of giving and the importance of lending a helping hand to those in need with a leading example from Karim Adeyemi. In addition, this year’s theme, “Fighting Poverty and Improving Education and Health,” strongly aligns with the focal areas of Karim Adeyemi Foundation (KAF). The Foundation’s efforts in small communities across Nigeria, demonstrate its commitment to these goals. Through educational scholarships, vocational and technical skills training, donations of essential machinery, and health-focused interventions like Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) projects, KAF is making a tangible impact in the fight against poverty and the improvement of education and community health.
Though the challenges may seem insurmountable, to be very honest they indeed are, the foundation believes that every small act of kindness can make a difference. Efforts have been focused on providing food supplies, educational support, and life-saving services to people most affected by poverty and it is our hope that we continue to play a role in alleviating the suffering caused by untold economic hardship, and corruption in Nigeria.
However, there’s so much to do. There’s so much pain in this country and while Karim Adeyemi’s generosity and KAF’s projects may have helped bring some relief, much more is needed to address the root causes of Nigeria’s current predicament. On this International Day of Charity, we not only celebrate the spirit of giving but also call on the Nigerian Government to listen to the cries of the people. There is an urgent need for policy changes that will curb inflation, and create job opportunities, there’s a more urgent need to address the price of Petrol and ensure that the basic needs of the populace are met.
Charity can never replace good governance, there’s only so much a Charity Organisation can do when we consider the poverty ratio in the country, however, it can complement the efforts of the state in times of crisis. As we honour those who give from their hearts, we must also hold our leaders accountable for creating a society where charity is no longer a necessity, but a voluntary act of goodwill.
Happy International Day of Charity
Aanu Oluyide,
Karim Adeyemi Foundation
