.…Says Nigeria Risks Social Collapse Without Investment in Vulnerable Young People
An America-based Nigerian philanthropist, Agboola Bankole- Hameed (AG), has appealed to the Federal Government to prioritise investment in homeless and motherless children across the country.
Bankole-Hameed made the call on Saturday during a charity outreach and donation of food items to the Stella Obasanjo Children’s Home in Abeokuta, Ogun State.
He warned that failure to address the welfare of homeless children could lead to long-term social problems and weaken the country’s stability.
“The Nigerian government must allocate part of the national budget to support homeless children and people living with disabilities,” he said.
According to him, social neglect, if left unaddressed, could lead to what he described as an “implosion” in society due to rising vulnerability.
Bankole-Hameed emphasised that his message was not political but humanitarian, urging leaders to prioritise vulnerable citizens.
“I’m not a politician, but it’s important that the government allocates funding for this sector. Children without support are still the future of this country,” he added.
He explained that a compassionate approach to national planning would not only improve lives but also strengthen Nigeria’s future workforce.
Bankole-Hameed said his inspiration for humanitarian work began in the United States, where he often watched his brother feed homeless people.
“Growing up, my brother fed homeless people in McDonald’s in the US. It stayed with me,” he recounted.
The philanthropist noted that his visit to the Abeokuta orphanage was driven by gratitude and a desire to give back to society.
“Giving back is my way of appreciating God’s kindness. It’s a reminder that blessings become complete when shared,” he said.
He described the experience of meeting the children as emotional and inspiring, reaffirming his commitment to continue the initiative.
“This is not a one-off. It is something I intend to keep doing. It’s a part of who I am,” he stated.
Bankole-Hameed urged Nigerians to extend acts of kindness beyond festive seasons and religious obligations.
“We shouldn’t only remember the less privileged during celebrations. People are struggling every day,” he noted.
Speaking further, he called on citizens to show empathy rather than judgement towards children living without families.
“These children are not criminals. They need support, structure, and belief. Society must not abandon them,” he warned.
Bankole-Hameed believes Nigeria must learn from developed nations that prioritise welfare systems for vulnerable groups.
“In America, we criticise the government for spending more on wars than welfare. Nigeria should not repeat that error,” he said.
He stressed that strategic funding in child welfare was both an economic and moral obligation.
“These young people will take over the future of the country. Investing in them is investing in Nigeria,” he maintained.
The philanthropist also appealed to religious institutions, private organisations, and wealthy individuals to participate in social support.
“Philanthropy is not optional. It is necessary. Never forget the community you live in,” Bankole said.
Management of Stella Obasanjo Children’s Home expressed appreciation for the gesture and described it as timely.
They appealed for more interventions to address feeding, healthcare, and educational needs of the children in their care.
Notable personalities at the event included former Vice Chancellor of Olabisi Onabanjo University, Prof. Afolabi Soyode.
Others present were Chairman, Cost and Management Accountants in the USA, Mrs. Biola Hameed Bankole, and Erelu Dupe Soyode.
Also in attendance were Erelu Aare Oluomo of Egbaland, and Amona Tajudeen Oladeinde, alongside several community leaders.
The event ended with prayers and renewed calls for stronger public and private sector commitment to child welfare across Nigeria.
