By Yemisi Suleiman

Recently, some underprivileged members of Ajegunle, a suburb in Ajeromi Ifelodun local government area of Lagos state, received much-needed relief as JK EL ROI, an empowerment foundation founded by Ajegunle-born philanthropist Joy Orode Mangibo, launched its first community outreach, underscoring a deep commitment to giving back to the community where she was born and raised.

Speaking at the launch, Mangibo said the initiative was was inspired by her upbringing in Ajegunle and a long-standing desire to support vulnerable members of the community. “I was born and raised in Ajegunle, and this community shaped who I am today,” she said. “Giving back is personal for me. It is about lifting my people and restoring hope.”
Mangibo explained that the foundation, which she described as a vision nurtured for over 25 years, is committed to empowering children, women, the aged, and indigent persons through education, health, and social support. “I grew up under the care of my grandmother, and from her I learned compassion and the importance of helping others,” she noted.
One of the foundation’s core goals is to address the issue of out-of-school children in Ajegunle. “There are about 100 children here who are no longer in school,” Mangibo revealed. “Our mission is to bring them off the streets, return them to the classroom, and for those who prefer skills, provide handwork and vocational opportunities.”

She added that the outreach programmes will be organised in three phases each year to ensure more children benefit. “We want to give these children hope and a future. This is not a one-off intervention,” she said.
The foundation’s launch, which held at the Naval Base Mobil road Ajegunle Lagos, featured a medical outreach for residents and the distribution of food items to over 300 women. Expressing gratitude, Mangibo said, “The support from the community and our friends has been overwhelming. Empowerment must be holistic, health, education, and social care must go together.”

Proud of her roots, she emphasised the positive potential of Ajegunle. “I am proud to be from Ajegunle. This community has produced great people, and I want our youth to thrive and succeed,” she said, urging residents to remain focused and united. “Ajegunle has a good name, and together we can build a brighter future.”

Mangibo confirmed that the foundation will roll out scholarship schemes, women empowerment programmes, and additional outreach activities in the coming months, noting that her frequent travels abroad have not weakened her bond with the community. “No matter where I am, Ajegunle is home,” she said.