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Popular content creator and comedian, Abiri Tobi Festus, popularly known as Folagade Banks, has empowered three young creatives with N1m each and an iPhone 17 as part of his “Mama Deola Wedding Story” empowerment programme.
The initiative, which was organised through Folagade Banks Creations, was designed to support young creatives and encourage them to pursue their talents despite the challenges they may face.
Speaking during the presentation on Saturday, Banks said the programme was launched two months ago and attracted about 4,000 entries from young creatives with different personal and professional stories.
He said, “Two months ago, we commenced the ‘Mama Deola Wedding Story’ empowerment programme powered by Folagade Banks Creations, where we were going to empower young creatives with the sum of N1m each and an iPhone 17.
“We got 4,000 entries, which was quite overwhelming because everybody has a compelling story to tell about their journey and it is a lot.”
According to him, the large number of entries made the selection process challenging, but the organisers were eventually able to select three finalists to represent the other participants.
He added, “We have finally been able to come up with the top three finalists. Three people that will represent the remaining other winners because we all are winners as long as you don’t give up.”
Popular TikToker, Olamilekan Ridwan, also known as Ola Cruzz, emerged as the overall beneficiary, receiving N1m and an iPhone 17 for his creative efforts.
Two other creatives, Oduyebo Adedamola, popularly known as Damola Joor, and Fatai Habeebat, received N1m each as runners-up in the empowerment programme.
The initiative is part of Banks’ efforts to support emerging creatives and provide financial and material assistance to young people seeking to build careers in the creative industry.
Reacting to the gesture, Ridwan expressed appreciation to Banks for the financial support and smartphone, describing the empowerment as a demonstration of his generosity.
Ridwan said, “Boss, I honestly don’t even know how to appreciate you enough. Thank you so much for the money and the phone. Your kindness and generosity mean a lot to me, and I’ll never take this gesture for granted.”
He further prayed for continued blessings and prosperity for Banks, saying, “May God continue to bless you, increase you and replenish your pocket abundantly. You’re a real one, @folagade_banks. I truly appreciate you.”
The TikToker also called on his followers and members of the public to appreciate Banks for the gesture, urging them to join him in thanking and praying for the entertainer.
