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By Chukwuma Umeorah
Wealthy Nigerians have been urged to embrace philanthropy as a means of alleviating poverty and supporting vulnerable communities during this festive season.
This call was made by the President and Founder of the Andy White Perpetual Help Charity Foundation, Andy Ikheloa, during a cash presentation to indigents in the Idimu area of Lagos.
At the event, 20 pre-selected beneficiaries, including widows and other vulnerable individuals, received N50,000 each, while an additional 20 attendees who were not on the original list were given N10,000 each as a token of support. The foundation, in its debut initiative, aimed to provide immediate relief to those in need.
Ikheloa, reflecting on his own experiences, highlighted the importance of giving back as a way to express gratitude for one’s blessings. “I have experienced poverty and lack in the past, so I understand the challenges. As God blessed me, I felt the need to give back. Beyond spiritual rewards, there’s a deep sense of fulfillment and joy in helping others.”
He also emphasised the transparency of the selection process, noting that beneficiaries were chosen based on genuine need. “There was no favoritism in the selection process. Many of the beneficiaries are people we know who require assistance, while others were nominated by associates and thoroughly screened to confirm their eligibility.”
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Highlighting Nigeria’s widespread poverty, Ikheloa called on leaders to redirect resources to their constituencies.
“Our leaders should cut down consumption. It is time to go back to that community, to that constituency, to take care of the people that sent them to the senate or House of Assembly,” he said.
Ikheloa also emphasised the role of faith-based organizations in addressing societal issues. “The church is lending their own help to make sure this thing works, but more can be done. Looking ahead, the foundation plans to extend its outreach to support prisoners, schools, conduct sponsored and free medical checks among other interventions. “This December, we are going to the streets; we are going to feed the hungry,” Ikheloa revealed, expressing his commitment to long-term social impact.
One of the beneficiaries, Mrs. Bosede Salami, a street sweeper, shared her gratitude for the unexpected gesture.
“I couldn’t believe it when I was told about the award. I initially thought it was a joke, but now I see it’s real. This support will help me and my four children celebrate the Yuletide,” she said.
