One-year Memorial: Peter Obi, Pat Utomi, Others Launch Annie Okonkwo Foundation

The Annie Okonkwo Foundation (TAOF) has been officially launched to mark the one-year memorial of the late Senator, Annie Okonkwo last week.

The event, attended by distinguished guests including the Labour Party Presidential candidate, Peter Obi, former Governor of Anambra State and 2023 Presidential Aspirant, Prof. Pat Utomi, representative from Governor Charles Soludo’s office, members of the National Assembly.

Others included the former Minister of Aviation, Osita Chidoka, Chairman Next Oil, Chief, Dr. Ernest Azudialu Obiejesi and other prominent figures, celebrated both the legacy of the late senator and the impactful work already achieved by the foundation.

The foundation launch serves as a tribute to the life and legacy of Okonkwo, a man renowned for his tireless dedication to public service, education, healthcare, and the empowerment of marginalised communities.

His vision for a more inclusive and prosperous Nigeria continues to inspire the Foundation’s mission of fostering social change through education, healthcare, and community development.

“We are here today not just to launch a Foundation, but to honor the life of a great Nigerian whose passion for serving his people knew no bounds,” said Mrs. Chinyelu Okonkwo, Chairperson of the Board of Trustees of the Annie Okonkwo Foundation.

“Senator Okonkwo believed in the power of education, health, and unity to transform lives. This Foundation is a testament to his enduring legacy, and we are committed to continuing his work to uplift Nigerians across the country.”

Although the official launch was held in December 2024, the Annie Okonkwo Foundation has been actively working on the ground since early 2024.

In its first nine months, the Foundation has successfully implemented several impactful initiatives, reaching over 10,000 individuals across Nigeria.

Among the key programmes introduced are the TAOF Exam Fund, the TAOF Cardiovascular Outreach, and the TAOF Food Drive.

The TAOF Exam Fund was launched to support 150 students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds by covering their WASSCE examination fees.

This initiative addresses the financial barriers to tertiary education and opens doors to better opportunities for students striving to further their education.

The TAOF Cardiovascular Outreach provided free cardiovascular screenings and medication to over 150 adults aged 40 and above.

Given that heart disease is a leading cause of death in Nigeria, this initiative plays a vital role in promoting heart health awareness and offering life-saving interventions to vulnerable populations.

The TAOF Food Drive has been another cornerstone of the Foundation’s efforts, providing food aid to over 1,500 individuals each month.

This programme has been especially important in addressing food insecurity, offering support to families in need and ensuring that vulnerable communities receive essential sustenance.

The official launch of the Annie Okonkwo Foundation in December 2024 was a momentous occasion, not just for the impact the Foundation has already made, but as a powerful memorial to the late Senator.

The foundation’s work is rooted in his vision, and the launch event served as a reminder of his lasting influence on the lives of Nigerians.

During the ceremony, Peter Obi highlighted Okonkwo’s contributions to the development of Nigeria, emphasising his dedication to the education and well-being of Nigerians. “Senator Okonkwo’s work continues to inspire us,” said Obi. “Through the Foundation, his legacy lives on, and we must all continue to support initiatives that uplift our people.”

The event was a reminder of the need for collective action to address the challenges facing Nigeria, particularly in the areas of education, health, and poverty alleviation.

As the foundation looks ahead, it remains committed to the long-term vision laid out by the late senator.

Through its ongoing initiatives and future programmes, the Annie Okonkwo Foundation will continue to drive positive change by addressing critical needs in education, healthcare, food security, and community empowerment.

“We are just beginning this journey,” said Mrs. Okonkwo. “The legacy of Senator Okonkwo continues to guide us as we work to build a better future for all Nigerians. With the support of our partners, donors, and volunteers, we will continue to expand our reach and deepen our impact.”