The Oriental Hotel, located on the Lekki-Epe Expressway in Lagos, came alive on the 23rd of January 2025 as the Oyetty Foundation celebrated its 2nd anniversary, reaffirming its commitment to supporting parents of children with special needs.
Established in 2022, the non-profit organization has made significant strides in empowering caregivers by providing financial, emotional, and developmental support.
The event drew parents from across Lagos State, many of whom shared personal stories of how the foundation has been a lifeline since its inception.
Through the testimonials, it became evident that Oyetty Foundation has not only alleviated the burdens of caregiving but also empowered parents to thrive in their individual pursuits.
In her address, the founder, Mrs. Oyetola Akande, highlighted the foundation’s core mission: “We care for parents of children with special needs.”
“We assist them in setting up businesses, paying rents, and sponsoring their education or skills acquisition. The goal is to help them become self-reliant so they can, in turn, provide better care for their children.”
Reflecting on the organization’s journey, Mrs. Akande added: “This is our 3rd major gathering, although it marks our 2nd anniversary.”
“We urge parents to take care of themselves with the support we provide, as this enables them to better cater to their children.”
Her husband, Mr. Olusegun Akande, echoed her sentiments, describing the event as “moving and captivating,” given the touching stories shared by parents.
He expressed pride in the foundation’s accomplishments over the past two years and its impact on families.
“There is a stigma in this country that discourages families of children with special needs from seeking help. We encourage them to step out, engage, and access the right support,” he said.
He further revealed that the foundation spent ₦48.5 million in 2024 and aims to triple or quadruple its impact in 2025 with the support of well-meaning individuals and organizations.
Mr. Olusegun Akande also took the time to commend the foundation’s team—Oyetola Akande, Adedolapo Agunlekin, Oluwatoyin Alakija, and Mr. Isola Oladimeji—for their unwavering commitment to the growth of the foundation.
The program also featured an engaging question-and-answer session for parents, providing intellectual stimulation and creating a sense of community.
Winners of a competition were rewarded with cash prizes—₦100,000 for the first prize, ₦75,000 for the second, and ₦50,000 for the third.
Additionally, food packs and relief items were distributed to help parents start the year on a positive note.
Mrs. Simons Faloge, a mother of a 9-year-old daughter with Down syndrome, commended the foundation’s efforts.
She emphasized the importance of parents understanding that raising a child with special needs is not the end of the world.
“Parents must love their children, see the unique challenges as opportunities, and thrive in their endeavors,” she said.
She urged parents to speak up and seek help when needed while also praising the Oyetty Foundation as a community that offers genuine support to those who need it.
As the foundation looks to 2025, it is calling on more individuals and organizations to join hands in creating a brighter future for families of children with special needs.
INN-HOUSE☆ 