Davido, Funke Akindele, Adekunle Gold and other Nigerian celebrities are using their foundations to empower communities and support vulnerable citizens nationwide.
Through initiatives focused on education, healthcare, youth empowerment, poverty reduction, and support for underserved communities, these public figures are using their platforms and resources to create lasting impact.
The move comes as Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, recently urged leading entertainers to increase their philanthropic efforts and establish foundations that would support citizens facing economic hardship.
Speaking at the launch of the National Community Food Bank Programme in Lokoja, Kogi State, Tinubu called on prominent musicians such as Burna Boy, Davido and Asake to follow the example of global stars who use their wealth to support humanitarian causes.
“I have mentioned it before, and I would use Akon, a music icon who does a lot of great charity work. We want to see you with one foundation or the other,” she said.
“Help the poor with your money. Good cars are good. A Maybach is good, Rolls Royce is good, but still you can still help.”
Following the call, several Nigerian entertainers who already operate charitable organisations continue to provide support across different sectors.
Cuppy launched the Cuppy Foundation in 2018 to promote youth empowerment through education. The foundation partners with organisations globally to create opportunities for young people, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds, to access quality learning.
Adekunle Gold established the Adekunle Gold Foundation to raise awareness about sickle cell disease and improve the lives of people living with the condition. The organisation supports sickle cell charities and initiatives aimed at providing better care for affected individuals.
Tiwa Savage through the Tiwa Savage Music Foundation focuses on nurturing emerging talents by providing opportunities in music, education and creative development. The initiative supports aspiring artistes with mentorship, training and resources.
Actress Funke Akindele founded the Jenifa Foundation in 2024, with a focus on empowering vulnerable groups, supporting small businesses, and creating opportunities for individuals and communities to thrive.
Tonto Dikeh established the Tonto Dikeh Foundation, which focuses on education and humanitarian support, providing assistance to children and vulnerable communities across Africa.
Former Nigerian football star Nwankwo Kanu founded the Kanu Heart Foundation in 2000 to provide life-saving heart surgeries for children suffering from cardiac conditions, especially those who cannot afford medical treatment.
Actress Toyin Abraham established the Toyin Abraham Foundation, which supports maternal healthcare, women’s empowerment and initiatives aimed at improving the lives of women and children.
Williams Uchemba through the Williams Uchemba Foundation focuses on poverty reduction, community development and providing support for underprivileged Nigerians.
Davido’s David Adeleke Foundation, founded in 2022, has also provided financial assistance to vulnerable communities, including donations worth hundreds of millions of naira to orphanages and charitable organisations across Nigeria.
Beyond their careers in entertainment, these celebrities are increasingly using their fame and resources to support social causes and contribute to improving the lives of Nigerians in need.