As part of the activities to commemorate its 16th anniversary, Richard Akinnola Foundation today gave out N3.8 million to 38 widows of journalists and activists across the country.
The event, which took place at the Airport Hotel, Ikeja, also witnessed the renewal of the annual health insurance for the widows.
The Founder of the Foundation, Mr Richard Akinnola, who said the anniversary event was one of the two signature events of the Foundation, stated that other efforts of the Foundation, which are not usually made public, included assisting the widows in meeting some challenges like rent, school fees, and feeding. He noted that the Foundation last year also gave out BP monitor machines to all the widows.
Mr Akinnola disclosed that some of the widows under the Foundation are not in Lagos, and bank transfers are being effected for their financial support.
While thanking a few friends who have supported the Foundation, Mr Akinnola said the Foundation needs lots of financial support both from individuals and corporate bodies, adding that the financial burden of the past 16 years was getting too heavy.
He disclosed that “giving does not depend on how deep a person’s pocket is but how deep is the person’s compassion. Rich people don’t give, only caring people do”.
The Foundation was established on April 10, 2010, and was meant to bring succour to the widows and children of journalists and activists due to the precarious nature of the jobs and vocations of journalists and activists, respectively.