The ancient town of Iwo in Osun State witnessed a significant humanitarian milestone on Sunday, March 1, 2026, as the Relief Radiant Hearts Foundation (RRHF) was officially launched at the Palace of the Oluwo of Iwo.
The colourful ceremony, held at the revered palace of Oba Abdul Rasheed Adewale Akanbi, brought together dignitaries, traditional rulers, government officials, medical professionals, education stakeholders, and community leaders from within and outside Iwoland.
Royal Blessings and Endorsement
In his address, the Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Alhaji Liad Tella, expressed deep appreciation to the Oluwo for his fatherly guidance and royal endorsement, which paved the way for the successful unveiling of the Foundation.
He explained that the Relief Radiant Hearts Foundation is built on integrity, transparency, accountability, and sincerity of purpose. He also commended the Coordinator of RRHF, Asiwaju Anifowose Rahman, for his passion to reduce hardship, uplift the vulnerable, empower the less privileged through education, and restore dignity to struggling families.
According to Alhaji Tella, what began as a simple act of compassion has now grown into a structured institution of hope, adding that when a vision is sincere, support naturally follows.
In his royal remarks, Oba Akanbi praised the initiative, noting that it would help reduce poverty, strengthen social support systems, and foster unity within the Iwo community.
Chieftaincy Honour for UCH CMD
A major highlight of the event was the conferment of the prestigious chieftaincy title of *Baasegun Ariwajoye of Iwoland* on the Chief Medical Director of University College Hospital, Professor Jesse Abiodun Otegbayo.
Professor Otegbayo described the Foundation as “the unveiling of hope and the institutionalization of compassion.” He emphasized the urgent need for organized and sustainable humanitarian interventions, especially in a time when economic challenges continue to widen social inequalities.
Members of the UCH management team present included Mrs. I.O. Olaleye, Acting Director of Administration; Mrs. Fawole, Head of General Administration; Mr. Akintola, Head of Transport; and Mrs. Obafunmilayo Adetuyibi, Head of Public Relations.
Academic Excellence Competition: Rewarding the Future
One of the most inspiring segments of the launch was the Academic Excellence Competition organized by the Foundation.
Olaniyan Abdulsomod Olawale of Muslim Comprehensive High School, Isokan, emerged as the Overall Best Student. He received a gold medal and a full scholarship to any public university of his choice in Nigeria.
Zakariyah Hameedah of Iwo Grammar School secured second position and was promised full sponsorship for WAEC, NECO, and JAMB registration.
Taofeek Ajimoh of St. Anthony Catholic Grammar School, Iwo, came third and received full sponsorship for WAEC and NECO registration.
Two other outstanding students — Adigun Oluwatoyin Esther of Baptist High School, Iwo, and Atilola Ameeroh Demilade of Anwar-ul-Islam Grammar School, Iwo — were also recognized and rewarded for their commendable efforts.
In a further show of generosity, the Host of the Day, Engr. Alamu Akeem Adelani, pledged to sponsor the WAEC and NECO fees of the two additional awardees on behalf of Omoba Dotun Babayemi (ODB), reinforcing the community’s commitment to youth development.
Community Outreach and Humanitarian Service
Another notable moment during the launch was the distribution of food items to members of the community. This practical demonstration of compassion aligned directly with the Foundation’s core mission relief, dignity, and service.
Special appreciation was extended to the Executive Chairman of Iwo Local Government, members of the Executive Council, EAS officials, councilors, the CEO of Coastline, and prominent sons and daughters of Iwo both at home and abroad who contributed to the success of the occasion.
A Symbol of Unity and Collective Responsibility
Speakers at the ceremony agreed that the Relief Radiant Hearts Foundation represents more than an organization. It stands as a symbol of unity, structured compassion, and shared responsibility for the welfare of the vulnerable.
With prayers of gratitude to Almighty Allah for the successful launch, stakeholders expressed optimism that the Foundation would continue to bridge social gaps, uplift struggling families, and inspire sustainable humanitarian service.
As the event concluded at the palace, one message stood out clearly: the Relief Radiant Hearts Foundation has begun a journey that promises to transform compassion into lasting impact positioning Iwo as a growing model of organized humanitarian service in Nigeria.
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