The Double A Foundation, a non-profit established by radio broadcaster Abiodun Adewole, known widely as Double A, has extended its support to local entrepreneurs through the 5th edition of its Annual Empowerment Programme. This year, 20 small business owners each received ₦50,000 to strengthen their livelihoods, doubling the foundation’s previous outreach.
The event took place at White House, Molete, Ibadan, drawing community members, beneficiaries, and supporters who gathered to celebrate the foundation’s commitment to grassroots empowerment, social justice, and human development.
Speaking at the event, Adewole, host of the popular ‘Aditu’ programme on Ilaji FM 91.9 and Chairman of the foundation, explained the inspiration behind the initiative.
“The vision behind this foundation is to impact society, especially the less privileged. Through Aditu on radio, we pursue social justice and advocate for people’s rights. But beyond journalism, we realized people need practical support to survive, that’s why we established the humanitarian arm.”
Launched five years ago with support for 10 beneficiaries, the programme has steadily expanded. This year marks its most ambitious edition, channeling a total of ₦1 million to 20 entrepreneurs.
“For the past four years, we’ve been empowering 10 people each year. Last year was 15. But this time, we decided to go bigger; 20 people, ₦50,000 each,” Adewole said.
“Our sponsor, whom I fondly call Baba Oloore Minnesota from the US, has been funding this initiative annually. He prefers to remain anonymous, but we deeply appreciate his continuous generosity.”
Adewole emphasized that the programme is designed not just to give financial aid but to build business discipline and long-term growth. Applicants were screened through interview sessions, with two disqualified for not meeting criteria. Selected beneficiaries were required to open dedicated bank accounts for monitoring and savings.
“We told them we won’t collect the money back. However, they should deposit small amounts weekly or monthly according to their business plans and send credit alerts to our contact person. After about ten weeks, they’ll return to show how much they’ve saved, and we’ll help them reinvest it. It’s a way to help them grow sustainably.”
He also acknowledged the committee behind the programme and offered prayers for the sponsor’s continued blessings.
Several beneficiaries expressed how the support would directly transform their businesses.
Fatima Yusuf, a tailor, said the empowerment came at a crucial time.
“This ₦50,000 may look small to some people, but to me, it means everything. I plan to buy materials and expand my small tailoring business. I pray that God continues to bless Double A and the sponsors.”
Another recipient, Rashidat Abdulateef, who runs a nylon business, described it as “timely and life-changing.”
“I have been struggling to grow my business with rising costs. This support will help me buy more stock and attract more customers. I thank Mr. Abiodun Adewole and the sponsor for remembering people like us every year.”
