The Odion Ighalo Orphanage was formally launched at the Bespoke Centre in Lekki, Lagos on Saturday with numerous footballers, celebrities and politicians in attendance.
The orphanage, financed by China-based Super Eagles striker Odion Ighalo, is located in Ijegun in Ikotun, a not-so-affluent area of Lagos.
Ex-football stars Nwankwo Kanu, Augustine Eguavoen and Waidi Akanni as well as Super Falcons pair of Asisat Oshoala and Onome Ebi were present at the event held in posh Lekki. Also in attendance were Publisher of SIGNAL, Ohimai Godwin Amaize and his wife, Tessy Oliseh-Amaize of Tesslo Concepts.
The event was anchored by one of Nigeria’s highest-profile comedians AY.
One of the highlights of the event was the donation of N1 million to the cause by former minister, ambassador and senator, Musiliu Obanikoro, who paid glowing tributes to Ighalo’s philanthropic gesture.
“From those who started the building over a year ago and kept the dream alive I appreciate them so much,” Ighalo said at the event.
“I have received moral support from everyone here and I’m happy they are helping fulfil my dreams of giving back to the needy.
“It has always been my dream and I’m happy that you all are here to see how God is working.”
Ighalo also promised that he will be willing to work with serious partners to ensure the orphanage gets the needed support to grow.
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