Olotu Foundation celebrates 6 years of transforming lives

DDM News

The Olotu & Ekuogbe Rowland Akpodiete Foundation has been a beacon of humanitarian service, particularly in Delta State, for the past six years.

Diaspora digital media (DDM) gathered that this foundation has remained steadfast in its commitment to empowering communities through diverse initiatives aimed at healthcare, education, and economic development.

Founded on the principle of giving back to society, it has executed numerous programs to uplift marginalized and underserved populations.

The foundation’s leadership has expressed deep appreciation to individuals, partners, and organizations that have supported its noble mission.

These partners have played a pivotal role in ensuring the successful execution of various community projects and outreach programs.

According to Dr. Olotu Akpodiete, the foundation’s Executive Director, true fulfillment comes from transforming lives and receiving heartfelt gratitude from beneficiaries.

He believes that nothing is more rewarding than hearing a sincere ‘God bless you’ from someone whose life has been uplifted.

Since its establishment in August 2018, the foundation has continuously engaged in community-driven interventions with measurable impact.

One of its first major initiatives was a two-day seminar on fish farming, targeting youth and women in Otor-Ihwreko community.

More than 70 participants were trained in modern fish farming techniques, providing them with skills for economic independence.

Egbo Emmanuel, one of the participants, described the training as a life-changing experience that reshaped his financial prospects.

He urged other organizations to adopt similar approaches in empowering individuals with practical and sustainable skills.

Beyond skill acquisition, the foundation has prioritized healthcare accessibility for vulnerable populations within Delta State.

In one of its earliest health initiatives, it organized a free medical outreach at the Otor-Ihwreko town hall.

This outreach catered to more than 150 residents, providing medical checkups, consultations, and essential medications.

Many beneficiaries, who previously struggled to access healthcare services, expressed immense gratitude for this intervention.

In December 2018, the foundation extended its philanthropic efforts to the Warri and Sapele correctional centers.

Recognizing the challenges faced by inmates, it provided food items, educational materials, and toiletries to improve their living conditions.

Additionally, Ogwashi-Uku correctional center also benefitted from similar donations facilitated by the foundation’s team.

The late Barrister Lilian Eserinune, a representative of the foundation, played a key role in the distribution of these items.

Education remains a major pillar of the foundation’s activities, with multiple interventions in Delta State schools.

In January 2019, students of Government College Ughelli and Eserophe Primary School received educational materials from the foundation.

This effort aimed to promote academic excellence and ease the burden on students from financially struggling backgrounds.

To further support education, the foundation launched a three-day medical outreach in Ughelli North and Ughelli South.

During this outreach, a potable water project was commissioned in Okparabe community, addressing their long-standing water scarcity issues.

More than 100 community members benefited from this health and sanitation initiative, gaining access to clean drinking water.

This outreach was dedicated to the 26th memorial remembrance of Chief Dr. Ekuogbe R. Akpodiete, an influential figure in the region.

During the event, Dr. Olotu Akpodiete emphasized the importance of health checkups and environmental hygiene for community well-being.

He urged residents to enroll in medical insurance schemes to enhance access to healthcare services in the long term.

Essential medical drugs were freely distributed to individuals in need during the outreach program.

Traditional leaders and residents of the community prayed for the foundation’s continued success and expressed heartfelt appreciation.

In another significant effort, the foundation addressed youth unemployment through digital skill training programs.

In June 2019, the foundation organized a digital marketing training in Ughelli and Warri, attracting numerous young participants.

The intensive sessions covered topics like e-commerce, social media marketing, and business branding to enhance economic self-reliance.

Stanley Igho, one of the participants, praised the program as revolutionary, stating that it transformed his business approach.

Ms. Eseoghene Omonuku also applauded the foundation for its dedication to empowering youth through modern skill acquisition.

As part of its first-anniversary celebration, the foundation launched a potable water project in Usiefrun community.

During this event, students of Ogbavweni Grammar School, Usiefrun, received educational materials and academic support.

At Government College Ughelli, the foundation introduced the Chief Dr. Ekuogbe Akpodiete Government Prize for academic excellence.

This prestigious award honored the best-performing SS1 Government student, encouraging competition and dedication to studies.

In February 2020, the foundation organized a security and safety awareness conference for local communities.

Participants were trained on crime prevention strategies, enhancing public safety consciousness across the state.

When the COVID-19 pandemic struck, the foundation swiftly responded with essential interventions for schools and healthcare institutions.

On August 14, 2020, staff and students of Government College Ughelli received personal protective equipment from the foundation.

This initiative included the donation of face masks, hand sanitizers, and handwashing stations to promote public health safety.

The foundation’s second-anniversary celebration coincided with the 25th memorial of Chief Dr. Ekuogbe Akpodiete, making it a memorable event.

In furthering educational support, the foundation awarded scholarships to deserving students at Delta State University, Oleh Campus.

Scholarship recipients were selected based on academic excellence and community service contributions, ensuring that only outstanding students benefitted.

Dr. Olotu Akpodiete personally congratulated the beneficiaries, urging them to maintain academic focus and ethical standards.

He also advised students to acquire employable skills, emphasizing the importance of entrepreneurial development.

At the event, Professor Alex Amata, Provost of Delta State University, Oleh Campus, presented an honorary award to Dr. Akpodiete.

The university’s Student Union Government (SUG) also recognized him for his unwavering support for education and youth empowerment.

A thought-provoking lecture on academic excellence was delivered by Mr. Kenneth Oribo, a respected university lecturer.

Comrade Onome Obodo, the SUG President, publicly thanked the foundation for awarding scholarships to students in need.

The foundation’s impact on education has remained consistent, with the Chief Dr. Ekuogbe Akpodiete Government Prize awarded again in 2021.

In February 2022, Dr. Olotu Akpodiete marked his 40th birthday with students of Government College Ughelli, choosing philanthropy over personal celebrations.

As a birthday gesture, he donated ceiling fans, educational materials, and financial aid to the school.

The school’s principal, Mr. Obor Samson, hailed this as an unprecedented act of generosity within the institution.

In April 2024, the foundation observed the 29th remembrance anniversary of Chief Dr. Ekuogbe Rowland Akpodiete.

During the event, food items and financial donations were presented to Rose Ilogbo Foundation and Christ Treasured Royal Ministry orphanages.

The foundation honored Chief Dr. Akpodiete’s legacy, recognizing his role as a magistrate, traditional leader, and respected legal scholar.

Until his passing in April 1995, he served as the Otota (Prime Minister) of Ughelli Kingdom, influencing policies and governance.

His life’s work continues to inspire many individuals across Delta State and beyond.

Dr. Olotu Akpodiete is an entrepreneur, philanthropist, and management consultant with vast experience in leadership and development.

He studied at Ambrose Alli University and later attended the Paris Graduate School of Management in France.

Numerous institutions have recognized his contributions, awarding him honorary doctorate degrees and professional fellowships.

In 2023, the Government College Ughelli Old Boys Association named him Philanthropist Man of the Year.

Currently, he serves as president of the Explorers Innovative Initiative, an NGO focused on scholarships and human capital development.

A devout Christian, he remains committed to both family and community service, balancing personal success with societal contributions.

The foundation has pledged to continue its mission, urging partners and well-wishers to support its expanding initiatives.

In celebration of its sixth anniversary, it registered over 120 Delta residents for Delta State health insurance, ensuring sustainable healthcare access.

Moving for ward, the foundation remains committed to transforming lives, bridging economic gaps, and fostering sustainable development across Delta State.

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