By Olayiwola Karimat

Muyideen Okunlola Kayode (MOK) delivered a keynote speech at the 3rd Strategic Media Seminar, hosted by the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Sobi FM Chapel in collaboration with the Nigeria Media Parliament (NMP). The seminar’s theme was “The Role of Media: Bridging the Gap between Government Social Investment Programs and Private Grassroots Philanthropy.”

MOK emphasized that private grassroots philanthropy plays a vital role in filling the gaps left by government programs in Nigeria. However, he noted that these efforts often operate in isolation, leading to inefficiencies and a lack of impact. To address this, MOK stressed the importance of the media in bridging the gap between government social investment programs and private grassroots philanthropists.

In his speech, MOK further explained the critical role of the media in this regard. Firstly, the media can provide a platform for creating awareness about the needs of vulnerable populations and the importance of social investment programs. By highlighting the challenges faced by these populations, the media can help build public support for social investment programs and encourage private individuals and organizations to get involved.

Secondly, the media can facilitate collaboration and coordination between government investment programs and private grassroots philanthropists. By providing a platform for stakeholders to share their experiences, challenges, and successes, the media can help identify areas of synergy and opportunities for collaboration.

Thirdly, the media can hold government and private philanthropists accountable for their actions by providing a watchdog function. This can help ensure that social investment programs are transparent, effective, and accountable to the people they serve.

MOK also shared his personal experience of establishing the MOK Foundation, which was set up to alleviate the financial burden of individuals and groups of people. In the last 18 months, the foundation has provided support to over 29,000 people, who are mainly indigenes and residents of Kwara State. He noted that the foundation has been using media houses, both local and conventional, to spread the word about their philanthropic efforts. The media has continued to collaborate with their efforts by keeping the populace informed about their activities.

In his conclusion, MOK emphasized that bridging the gap between government social investment programs and private grassroots philanthropists requires a collaborative effort from all stakeholders, including the media. He urged the media to use their platforms to raise awareness, facilitate collaboration, and hold stakeholders accountable. Together, he said, we can create a more just and equitable society for all Nigerians.