(Nigerian celebrities. Photo by News Express)
Davido, Funke Akindele, Adekunle Gold and other Nigerian celebrities are deploying their foundations to empower communities and support vulnerable citizens across the country, focusing on areas such as education, healthcare, youth empowerment, poverty reduction and support for underserved populations.
This comes after Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, recently called on leading entertainers to step up their philanthropic efforts and establish foundations to support Nigerians facing economic hardship.
Speaking at the launch of the National Community Food Bank Programme in Lokoja, Kogi State, she urged prominent musicians such as Burna Boy, Davido and Asake to emulate global stars who channel their wealth into humanitarian causes, citing Akon as an example of a music icon known for extensive charity work.
She encouraged them to consider setting up foundations, noting that while luxury possessions such as a Maybach or Rolls Royce are commendable, celebrities are still in a position to extend financial support to the less privileged.
Following this call, several Nigerian entertainers already running charitable organisations continue to provide support across various sectors.
Cuppy launched the Cuppy Foundation in 2018 to promote youth empowerment through education, partnering with organisations globally to expand access to quality learning for young people, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds.
Adekunle Gold established the Adekunle Gold Foundation to raise awareness around sickle cell disease and improve the lives of those living with the condition, supporting sickle cell charities and initiatives geared toward better care for affected individuals.
Tiwa Savage, through the Tiwa Savage Music Foundation, focuses on nurturing emerging talent by providing opportunities in music, education and creative development, offering mentorship, training and resources to aspiring artistes.
Actress Funke Akindele founded the Jenifa Foundation in 2024, centred on empowering vulnerable groups, supporting small businesses and creating opportunities for individuals and communities to thrive.
Tonto Dikeh runs the Tonto Dikeh Foundation, which focuses on education and humanitarian support, assisting children and vulnerable communities across Africa.
Former Nigerian football star Nwankwo Kanu founded the Kanu Heart Foundation in 2000 to provide life-saving heart surgeries for children with cardiac conditions who cannot afford treatment.
Actress Toyin Abraham established the Toyin Abraham Foundation, which supports maternal healthcare, women’s empowerment and initiatives aimed at improving the lives of women and children.
Williams Uchemba, through the Williams Uchemba Foundation, focuses on poverty reduction, community development and support for underprivileged Nigerians.
Davido’s David Adeleke Foundation, founded in 2022, has provided financial assistance to vulnerable communities, including substantial donations to orphanages and charitable organisations across Nigeria.
Beyond their entertainment careers, these celebrities are increasingly leveraging their fame and resources to support social causes and improve the lives of Nigerians in need.
