The Madosi Empowerment Network, led by philanthropist and community leader, Chief Samuel Elijah Whenayon, popularly known as Madosi, has continued to impact lives through a series of empowerment programmes targeted at widows, elderly persons and other vulnerable members of society.
The initiative, which began as part of activities marking Whenayon’s 60th birthday celebration last year, has evolved into an annual outreach programme aimed at providing support and hope to disadvantaged individuals within the community.
Speaking on the vision behind the project, Whenayon said the decision to institutionalise the empowerment programme was inspired by his desire to make a lasting difference in the lives of widows and senior citizens facing economic and health challenges.
“I started the empowerment programme during the celebration of my 60th birthday, and at that time I made a personal commitment that it would become a yearly event. By the grace of God, we are also planning a special edition of the programme in December 2026,” he said.
As part of this year’s activities, the network recently organised a medical outreach that provided free eye examinations and distributed medicated eyeglasses to beneficiaries in need.
According to Whenayon, the outreach forms part of the Madosi Widows and Elderly People’s Medical Programme, which includes medical screenings, eye tests, free medication and the distribution of corrective glasses.
He explained that the organisation’s second major programme, scheduled for later in the year, focuses on economic empowerment for widows and elderly citizens through financial assistance and the provision of tools to support small-scale businesses.
Under the scheme, beneficiaries receive cash grants and business support items such as grinding machines, hairdryers, deep freezers and other equipment designed to improve their livelihoods and enhance economic self-sufficiency.
Although the initiative is currently funded primarily by Whenayon and a few associates, he expressed openness to partnerships and support from government agencies, corporate organisations and well-meaning individuals.
“In as much as this is largely a personal project supported by some friends, we welcome any assistance from individuals, corporate bodies or government institutions. Our vision is clear and our commitment remains unwavering,” he said.
For now, the programme is concentrated within Lambe and surrounding communities in Ogun State, but Chief Whenayon expressed optimism that its reach would expand to other areas in the future.
Over the years, numerous widows and elderly persons have benefited from the initiative, with many testifying to the positive impact it has had on their health, businesses and overall quality of life.
The Madosi Empowerment Network says it remains committed to supporting vulnerable members of society and promoting community development through sustainable welfare and empowerment programmes.
