Family marks patriarch’s 100th posthumous birthday with humanitarian outreach

The grandchildren of the late Alhaji L. A. Akande, fondly remembered as Alasaro, have organised a humanitarian outreach in Lagos to mark his 100th posthumous birthday.

The event, held under the newly launched Akande Alasaro Legacy Initiative, focused on supporting children of police officers and other underprivileged pupils through scholarships and the donation of school materials.

The maiden project of the initiative was aimed at extending the late Akande’s values of compassion, education, and community service. Speaking on behalf of the family, members of the Akande Àárà Ìrẹsà family described the day as one of gratitude and reflection on his legacies.

One of the grandchildren, Mrs Rasheedat Bamgbade, said: “Today marks what would have been our grandfather’s 100th birthday. Though he is no longer with us, we celebrate his life by continuing his legacy, helping the less privileged and promoting education among children who need it most.”

The outreach, held in collaboration with a non-governmental organisation, Street to School, featured the distribution of school bags, branded exercise books, and learning materials to pupils. Ten pupils from Abule Egba and children of police families each received a cash donation of N100,000.

Beyond charity, the Akande Alasaro Legacy Initiative also plans to document the family’s heritage through stories, photographs, and a biography project. The grandchildren unveiled the Akande Àárà Ìrẹsà Family Crest, symbolising unity and continuity.

According to the committee, the programme will become a yearly tradition. Each year, the family will award scholarships and host a legacy colloquium to discuss community progress and celebrate educational achievements.

The late Akande, remembered as a devout Muslim, community leader, and philanthropist, left an enduring mark on those who knew him. His teachings on discipline, faith, and generosity continue to inspire younger generations.

Also speaking, another granddaughter, Mrs Oluwatosin Taiwo, said: “This initiative is not just about remembrance but continuing his mission of giving back to society, lifting children through education, and keeping his values alive.”

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