By Demola Akinyemi, Ilorin

A philanthropist and founder of MOK Foundation, QS Muyideen Okunlola Kayode has called on governments at all levels to strengthen partnerships with private individuals and organizations involved in grassroots philanthropy to be able to considerably address the challenges of poverty plaguing the nation.

Kayode who said his MOK Foundation has assisted over 29,000 people in Kwara State over the past 18 months made this assertion during his keynote address at the Strategic Media Seminar organized by the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Sobi FM Chapel, in Ilorin on Friday.

He noted that while government-led social investment programs like the National Social Investment Program (NSIP) have been instrumental in supporting vulnerable populations, significant gaps remain, still leaving many vulnerable Nigerians not captured by the program.

According to him,“Despite Nigeria being Africa’s largest economy, we still grapple with poverty, inequality, and social injustice. Government programs, though well-intentioned, cannot sufficiently cater to the needs of all vulnerable groups. This is where private grassroots philanthropy becomes essential.”

Kayode stressed that grassroots philanthropy voluntary contributions from individuals and organizations has been filling the void left by government programs.

He however, lamented that lack of synergy between government initiatives and private efforts often leads to inefficiencies and duplication.

Kayode emphasized the critical role of the media in bridging these gaps, urging journalists to amplify the needs of underserved populations, facilitate collaboration between stakeholders, and hold both government and private philanthropists accountable.

He noted that,“the media has a watchdog role that ensures transparency and effectiveness in social investment programs. By fostering public awareness and facilitating dialogue among stakeholders, the media can create a platform for impactful collaborations,”

Kayode also hinted how his MOK Foundation has assisted over 29,000 people in Kwara State over the past 18 months.

According to him, the foundation has leveraged local and mainstream media platforms to publicize its activities, ensuring that the public remains informed and engaged.

“The MOK Foundation was born out of a desire to alleviate the financial burdens of individuals and groups. The media has been instrumental in amplifying our efforts, and we look forward to a sustained partnership with media strategists,” he said.

Kayode urged the government to actively engage with private philanthropists to develop coordinated frameworks that maximize impact, noting that “collaboration between government programs and grassroots philanthropists will reduce duplication and inefficiencies, creating a more just and equitable society,”

He particularly called on all stakeholders, including the media, to play their roles in creating a society where no one is left behind.

“Together, we can bridge the gap between government programs and private philanthropic gestures for the collective good of Nigerians,” he concluded.