The Oyetty Foundation has provided business support worth over ₦79 million to parents, aimed at helping them revive and sustain their livelihoods while caring for children with special educational needs and disabilities in Lagos.
The support was highlighted during the foundation’s third anniversary celebration, where a Suzuki Mini Bus was presented to Adenrele Onipede, a parent from the Modupe Cole Special School, Akoka. In addition, business support was extended to 25 other parents, a gesture that drew emotional reactions from guests and reflected the foundation’s focus on easing the daily challenges faced by caregiving families.
Speaking at the event, the founder of the foundation, Oyetola Akande, reflected on its growth and the increasing number of families reached through its programmes. “We’ve been able to support many parents in ways that help them rebuild their lives. Some have started businesses, some returned to school, and others have secured jobs. Our mission is simple: to empower parents caring for children with mental and developmental conditions,” she said.
Akande also encouraged other foundations to stay committed to their missions, stressing that consistency and long-term dedication are key to creating meaningful community impact. She noted that steady service helps families trust support systems and build lasting progress over time.
Addressing parents of children with special educational needs and disabilities, Mrs Akande urged them to show love and patience while caring for their children. She emphasized the importance of self-care as part of effective caregiving. “Take care of yourself so you can take care of your child in the best way you can,” she added.
Presenting the foundation’s annual scorecard, Oluwatomi Alakija disclosed that over 25 parents received direct support in the past year, while more than 60 families have benefited since the foundation began operations. She revealed that business support valued at over ₦79 million has been provided to help parents restart and sustain their means of livelihood.
Alakija reiterated the foundation’s ongoing commitment to promoting early intervention practices for children with developmental challenges, noting that timely support improves long-term outcomes for both children and their caregivers.
Also speaking at the event, Olusegun Akande, husband of the founder, commended the foundation’s team for their consistency, compassion, and dedication to families in need. He encouraged them to continue carrying out their work with excellence and empathy.
A team member, Isola Oladimeji, expressed appreciation to partner schools, parents, and teachers for their patience and resilience. She noted that their collective efforts play an essential role in supporting the growth and development of children with special needs.
One of the most emotional moments came from Adeosun Anike, a beneficiary, who shared her experience of facing overwhelming challenges before discovering the foundation. She described the support she received as life-changing, explaining that it helped her care better for her children and restored her sense of hope.
She encouraged other parents in similar situations to remain resilient, stressing that organizations like the Oyetty Foundation exist to ensure families are not alone.
Founded to empower parents raising children with developmental challenges, the Oyetty Foundation provides psychological counselling, financial assistance, caregiving support, and social empowerment initiatives. Its programmes mainly serve single parents, couples, and caregivers.
Over the past three years, the foundation has partnered with institutions such as Modupecole, Lagos State Special Needs School, Igbobi; Morainbow Down Syndrome Foundation; and Atundaolu School. These partnerships have strengthened outreach and support networks tailored to the needs of the special needs community.
As the foundation enters its fourth year, it has reaffirmed plans to expand programmes, strengthen partnerships, and ensure families receive the support, dignity, and empowerment they deserve.
