In a momentous ceremony held at the CINI Holdings office in Ikoyi, High Chief Habeeb Olalekan Okunola, MON, OFR, was honoured with an Award of Excellence from the City of Brampton, Canada. This recognition is a testament to his exceptional contributions to philanthropy, empowerment, and entrepreneurial development in Nigeria, underscoring the profound impact he has had on countless lives.
Representing the Mayor of Brampton, His Lordship Mayor Patrick Brown, a formal delegation was led by Mr Richard Forward, the Senior Manager of the Financial Advisory Budget Office for the City of Brampton. During the presentation event, the delegation underscored the city’s commitment to fostering international partnerships with influential leaders like Chief Okunola, known for his generous spirit and dedication to uplifting those in need.
The award celebrated High Chief Habeeb’s extensive philanthropic endeavours, particularly through his Habeeb Okunola Foundation, which has significantly transformed the lives of individuals in various communities. Along with the award, Chief Okunola received a formal letter sealed by Mayor Brown that expressly commended his commitment to economic development, community advancement, and his unwavering support for the recently concluded African Made Economic Growth Initiative (AMEGI) in Canada.
During the ceremony, Mayor Brown’s representatives noted, “With a vibrant Nigerian community of approximately 12,000 residents in Brampton, it is vital to spotlight individuals like High Chief Habeeb who are making a tangible difference in the welfare of others.” This statement underscores Chief Okunola’s role as a beacon of hope and positive change within the community.
The delegation also included Mr Imadu Maurice, an adviser and community engagement specialist from the Mayor’s Office, along with Mrs Kehinde Adelaja-Okoroafor, the Founder of the Make Mee Elegant Foundation. They both highlighted Chief Okunola’s profound compassion for the underprivileged and his relentless efforts to empower them.
In a significant gesture of ongoing collaboration, Mayor Brown extended a formal invitation to High Chief Habeeb to participate in next year’s AMEGI event, which will be hosted by the City of Brampton. This pivotal event aims to strengthen economic ties, empower one thousand women, and celebrate the rich contributions of the African diaspora to Canadian society.
Promise Godbold – Managing Director, Rush Right Limited & Group CFO Cini Holdings, accepted the award on behalf of Chief Okunola. He emphasised that Chief Okunola has consistently demonstrated his wealth through substantial investments in empowerment initiatives. While accepting the award, he praised Mayor Brown for his commendable efforts in making Brampton one of the finest cities in Canada. He also reaffirmed Chief Okunola’s commitment to philanthropy, stating that he would continue to reinvest a significant portion of his business proceeds to support vulnerable communities.
“Mayor Brown, your hands-on leadership in championing the Brampton Youth Empowerment Initiative, alongside the recent Affordable Housing Expansion Program, exemplifies public service that uplifts its citizens in real time,” Mr Promise remarked.
He further stated, “These initiatives embody the kind of forward-thinking governance that encourages global partnerships. As I look ahead to deepening my engagements with the wonderful people of Brampton, especially during my upcoming visit to Canada next year, I am excited to extend our philanthropic and developmental programs to the city, thus supporting your efforts and fostering shared prosperity.”
“Through the Habeeb Okunola Foundation (HOAfrika), our mission remains straightforward: to restore essential human amenities where they have been lost and to create opportunities where none exist. To date, our projects have positively impacted over 150,000 lives across Africa through educational sponsorships, healthcare interventions, humanitarian relief, rural development, and support for women-led entrepreneurial initiatives. We have provided thousands of medical treatments, delivered millions of meals, and supported youth who needed someone to believe in their potential.”
For Chief Okunola, this honour serves as a testament to the strengthening diplomatic and economic ties being established between Canadian institutions and Nigerian leaders dedicated to fostering societal improvement and resilience.
