By Taiwo Akinyemi
As part of efforts to sustain his legacy and vision left behind, Akinrinlola Olokunboro Foundation (AOF) has been launched by the family in Akure, the Ondo State capital to immortalise late political giant and progressives chieftain.
The foundation launched on Thursday 26th June, 2025, the family said it’s setup to give back to the society by empowering the widow, women and Youths.
The Foundation was established in honour of the Late Pa Akinrinlola Olokunboro, a visionary Leaders and grassroots politician who was part of those who shaped progressive politics in Ondo State during the 1970s and 1980s.
Speaking at the event, Barrister Olaifa Oluwatoba, the Director of the Akinrinlola Olokunboro foundation, confirmed that the purpose of the foundation is to empower the widow, women and Youth and also for the betterment of the people of Akure South and Akure North local government areas.
Barrister Olaifa Oluwatoba spoke well of late PA Olokunboro as a respected member of the Unity Party of Nigeria (UPN) who inherited the welfarist ideas from the defunct Action Group (AG).
“Pa Akinrinlola Olokunboro was renowned for his simplicity, Accessibility and lifelong commitment to people -centered democracy.
“His home became a hub for political activities, hosting numerous democratic primaries and mentoring emerging political leaders. He dreamt of a society where governance serves everyone equitably.
“The Akinrinlola Olokunboro Foundation (AOF) is a direct extension of this dream founded to continue his legacy through humanitarian service and social impact programs across Ondo State,” she opined.
Barrister Olaifa Oluwatoba said “the scope of foundation includes: Food Security, Housing Support, Job training, Healthcare Access, Education and Literacy, Financial Assistance and Community Outreach.”
The Director said, “It is with great humility and a deep sense of purpose that I welcome you all to the official launching of the Akinrinlola Olokunboro Foundation (AOF) a dream born out of legacy, love, and a deep commitment to humanity. This foundation is more than an organization.
“It is a torch carried from the hands of a great man-Late Pa Akinrinlola Olokunboro-whose life was dedicated to building people, nurturing justice, and advocating for democracy that truly served the common man. His home was a gathering point for hope, his values were rooted in simplicity, and his vision was clear: a society where no one is left behind.
“Historical Background of Akinrinlola Olokunboro Foundation (AOF): The Akinrinlola Olokunboro Foundation (AOF) was established in honor of Late Pa Akinrinlola Olokunboro, a visionary leader and grassroots politician who shaped progressive politics in Ondo State during the 1970s and 1980s. A respected member of the Unity Party of Nigeria (UPN)-which inherited its welfarist ideals from the Action Group Pa Olokunboro was renowned for his simplicity, accessibility, and lifelong commitment to people-centered democracy.
“His home became a hub for political activity, hosting numerous democratic primaries and mentoring emerging political leaders. He dreamed of a society where governance serves everyone equitably. The Akinrinlola Olokunboro Foundation AOF is a direct extension of this dream-founded to continue his legacy through humanitarian service and social impact programs across Ondo State.
“Our Mission: To promote inclusive development, empower the underrepresented, and provide targeted social and economic interventions for communities in Akure North and South LGAs, with plans to expand across Ondo State.
“Financial Assistance: Offering small loans, emergency grants, and financial counseling for families in crisis.
“Community Outreach: Hosting community forums to understand grassroots needs and relay urgent concerns to government stakeholders for policy response. Our Impact Goals: By implementing these programs, AOF seeks to:
“Alleviate Poverty & Inequality by addressing basic human needs; Promote Social Justice through advocacy and fair policy engagement; Empower Youth & Families via education, job access, and skill-building; and Build an Equitable Society where everyone has the opportunity to thrive,” the Director said.
In his Address, Dr S.B. Akerele appreciated the family of the deceased for immortalizing their father with welfare foundation that would benefit the under-privileged in the society.
