Emeka Moses
Olawale Ojoye, popularly known as Smiley and founder of the Smiley Foundation, has launched a community outreach programme in Mushin, Lagos, describing it as a humanitarian project aimed at enhancing lives rather than promoting any political goals.
Ojoye, who is the Personal Assistant to Lagos State Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Hon. Tokunbo Wahab, explained that the foundation was created out of a desire to give back to society and foster a spirit of compassion and service.
“This is not about politics. It is simply about caring for one another and making a meaningful impact in people’s lives. If I have the opportunity to help, then I believe I should do so,” he stated.
He further revealed why Mushin was selected as the initial location, noting its personal importance as his ancestral home.
“I am from Idi Oro in Mushin, my family is from here, so the natural thing is to begin here before expanding to other local government areas across Lagos,” he said.
The foundation distributed over 100 mattresses, mosquito nets, medications, foodstuff, and other supplies to hospitals, elderly patients, correctional facilities, and orphanages in the Idi Araba area as part of their intervention.
Ojoye also explained that visits to centres caring for children with autism, hearing impairments, and other special needs have strengthened his commitment to support underserved communities.
“Those visits were an eye-opener for me. Seeing the challenges people face made me even more determined to continue helping in whatever way I can,” he remarked.
While recognising the support from his boss, Hon. Tokunbo Wahab, Ojoye emphasised that the initiative remains personally funded and operates independently.
