By Achebe Ikechukwu

The rate at which poverty increases in Nigeria seems to have never become retrogressed or retarded. Thus, its effects on citizens, especially in modest or rural areas, have been alarming. Hence, the struggles of children in these places, even at their tender ages. Apart from the fact that these children become vulnerable and used as pawns in society by those in the upper classes, they become needlessly tough on themselves and their hood. It becomes a race and war that only the fittest can ever survive, except for some god-like interventions.

Alhaji Muhydeen Kayode Okunlola was born in one of those modest areas in Offa, Kwara State. While his father was a mechanic, his mother was a petty trader. As the youngest of seven siblings, he could have embraced the warmth of his position if things were right with the family financially, but it was on the other side – he suffered with other siblings and was a subject of ridicule. Muhydeen, like other children faced with penury at very tender ages, experienced inferiority complex and some other psychological hiccups.

Muideen Okunlola (MOK) is a remarkable individual whose profound humility and selflessness are deeply rooted in his upbringing. Raised with a strong emphasis on respect for all and a commitment to serving others, MOK learned from an early age the importance of compassion and empathy. This foundation, coupled with his parents’ unwavering support and guidance, instilled in him a deep-seated desire to contribute positively to society. His lifelong pursuit of social justice, driven by a belief in a brighter future for all, is a testament to the values he learned during his formative years. MOK’s unwavering commitment to eradicating poverty and spreading hope and happiness reflects his unwavering belief in the inherent dignity and worth of every human being.

While it’s known that Muideen attended the Federal Polytechnic Offa, Kwara State, for his OND and later earned his HND at Federal Polytechnic, Nasarawa, his earliest education could be said to be that homid. Apart from his philanthropy, generally, the field of education seems to be dear to him, as he was faced with challenges during his elementary and secondary education.

Muideen didn’t just become charitable, industrious, knowledgeable, and resilient overnight, as many would think; he was shaped by these circumstances and the sight of his parents’ strife to become and make the children attain enviable heights. These are propellers to Muideen’s personality and work. The real estate sector is one of the most volatile sectors in Nigeria and one of the industries that contribute hugely to the nation’s GDP. With this, there are many people who are dubious, dangerous, and want to get rich quickly. Yet, Muideen has been tested and trusted in this industry, which has made him a highflyer. With over a decade in the industry, since 2009, his love for entrepreneurship and business made him co-found a construction company, Lexiar Construction Limited, in 2017.

Quantity surveying, a key aspect of construction management, involves cost estimation, financial planning, and delivering projects within budget while maintaining quality. Muideen’s expertise in these areas has enabled Luxiar Construction Limited to streamline project planning, optimize resources, and ensure all phases align with industry standards. His dedication to precision and innovation has established the company as one of the reliable leaders in delivering impactful projects that drive Nigeria’s infrastructural growth.

Muideen Kayode Okunlola, founder of the MOK Foundation, established the organization to address the challenges he witnessed in his community, including poverty, inadequate infrastructure, and lack of essential amenities. His vision is to complement government efforts and lead initiatives that empower individuals, improve living conditions, and promote sustainable development. Okunlola is deeply committed to turning his personal experiences into solutions that uplift the community and create lasting change.

The foundation has contributed to improving local infrastructure, powering over 120 transformers in Offa and prioritizing street lighting to prevent vandalism. Moreover, the MOK Foundation addresses food insecurity by distributing food to more than 10,000 people during Ramadan. Its efforts in agriculture include providing farmers in Offa and Oyun Local Government Areas with free access to acres of farmland and tractors, which has boosted productivity and contributed to local economic growth. These efforts exemplify the foundation’s comprehensive approach to community development.

In Kwara South, the MOK Foundation has empowered over 15,000 women across seven local government areas, with a particular focus on supporting market women in Offa and Oyun. Over 10,000 beneficiaries from markets like Owode and Oja Ale have received interest-free loans, boosting their businesses and promoting economic independence. In addition, the foundation partners with primary health centers to cover medical fees for vulnerable individuals and has provided scholarships to over 1,500 students, helping remove financial barriers to education, especially for those sitting for Junior and Senior WAEC exams.

In conclusion, Muhydeen Kayode Okunlola’s journey from humble beginnings to becoming a beacon of hope and progress is a testament to resilience, determination, and a commitment to community development. Through his work in the real estate sector and his philanthropic efforts via the MOK Foundation, he has not only transformed lives but also set a standard for leadership and compassion. His unwavering dedication to empowering the less privileged and driving sustainable growth serves as an inspiration to many, proving that impactful change begins with a vision and the courage to act on it.