Kogi SGS, Pastor Mrs. Folashade Ariki Ayoade Bags Okun Pillar of Charity Award from ODI
By Our Correspondent
The Secretary to the Kogi State Government, Pastor Mrs. Folashade Ariki Ayoade, PhD, has been honoured with the prestigious Okun Pillar of Charity Award by the Okun Development Initiative (ODI) in recognition of her contributions to humanitarian service, community development and the welfare of the people.
The award was presented during the Okun Unity Dialogue, organised under the theme: “Let’s Talk, Let’s Listen, Let’s Build Together.” The event was held at the Armed Forces Officers’ Mess and Suites, after Lungi Barracks by PW Construction Company, Asokoro, Abuja.
The gathering brought together prominent sons and daughters of Okunland, community leaders, professionals, political stakeholders, traditional representatives and other stakeholders committed to the unity, security and collective development of the Okun people.
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Presenting the award, the Okun Development Initiative described Pastor Mrs. Ariki Ayoade as a personality whose commitment to charity and service to humanity has continued to make a positive impact.
The Okun Pillar of Charity Award, according to the organisers, was designed to celebrate individuals who have demonstrated exceptional commitment to supporting people in need and contributing to the advancement of their communities.
Her recognition therefore represents an appreciation of her humanitarian disposition and her perceived commitment to using her position and influence to support people and promote development.
The award presentation formed part of the broader activities of the Okun Unity Dialogue, which provided a platform for stakeholders to discuss issues affecting Okunland and explore ways of building a more united and prosperous society.
The theme, “Let’s Talk, Let’s Listen, Let’s Build Together,” underscored the importance of dialogue, mutual understanding and collective responsibility in addressing the challenges confronting the people.
Participants at the gathering emphasised that sustainable development in Okunland requires unity of purpose, constructive engagement and the willingness of stakeholders to put the collective interest above individual considerations.
Receiving the award, Pastor Mrs. Folashade Ariki Ayoade commended the leadership of the Okun Development Initiative for finding her worthy of the recognition. She pointed out the need for a concerted effort to promote peace, unity, and development across the zone.
She said the honour would further spur her to do more in contributing to the overall development of the area and Kogi State at large.
According to her, the administration of Governor Usman Ododo has been fair in the distribution of development projects and appointments across the state. She therefore urged the people to continue to support the administration to enable it to succeed across all sectors.
Her recognition at such a gathering was particularly significant, coming at a time when stakeholders are increasingly advocating stronger collaboration among Okun professionals, political leaders, business people, community organisations and youths.
The award also highlighted the role of philanthropy and humanitarian intervention in complementing government efforts to improve the welfare of citizens.
The Okun Development Initiative used the occasion to reinforce its commitment to promoting unity, development and the collective interests of Okunland.
The organisation stressed the need for Okun people, irrespective of political affiliation, professional background or location, to continue to engage one another through dialogue and constructive conversations.
The initiative maintained that the future of Okunland depends largely on the ability of its people to identify common interests, resolve differences amicably and work together towards sustainable development.
The honour bestowed on Pastor Mrs. Ariki Ayoade adds another dimension to the recognition of individuals who have contributed to the welfare and development of the Okun community.
For the organisers and supporters of the award, charity is not merely about financial assistance but also about compassion, service, empowerment and the willingness to make a difference in the lives of others.
The Okun Pillar of Charity Award therefore serves both as a recognition of the recipient and as an encouragement to others to embrace the spirit of service and community responsibility.
The event ended on a strong note of unity, with stakeholders reiterating the need to sustain conversations that can transform the aspirations of Okunland into concrete developmental actions.
Pastor Mrs. Folashade Ariki Ayoade’s recognition as an Okun Pillar of Charity, participants noted, is a celebration of service, compassion and the enduring values of giving back to society.
DemocracyNewslineNewspaper, September 8, 2026
