By Basheer Luqman Olarewaju anipr
In a small village, there lived an old woman named Elara, known not for riches, but for her boundless generosity. She was a woman who embodied the spirit that true wealth lies in giving, always sharing her meager harvest and mending clothes for her neighbors. When a fever swept through her community, Elara didn’t hesitate; she gave her last coins and her most precious healing herbs to save a sick child. She proved that kindness costs nothing but offers everything, ultimately bringing an unexpected unity and joy to her village that no amount of gold could ever purchase. And, in the end, she was crowned as “goddes of generosity”.
The story of Elara is a mirror to the spirit we have witnessed through the Founder of the Muideen Kayode Okunlola (MOK) Foundation. Recently, the largest convergence of Kwara youth in sports, the Play With Kwara Youths (PWKY) 5.0, reached its grand conclusion. While congratulations are certainly in order for the champions, Team JCR, those of us within the MOK circle experienced something far more valuable than a gold medal. As one of the most significant supporters of this initiative, MOK exceeded his previous commitments, proving once again that his dedication to the youth transcends mere financial sponsorship.
PWKY is more than just a tournament; it is an annual heartbeat for our state, designed to connect Kwarans across the divides of politics, religion, and tribe. As both the spokesperson for the event and a player for Team MOK, I had an unforgettable front-row seat to the character of a man who understands that sharing his light doesn’t diminish his own candle. He is a selfless philanthropist and a motivational leader who refuses to pass the buck, instead standing firmly with his team through every high and low of the competition.
Throughout the tournament, MOK demonstrated the rare traits of wisdom, humility, and integrity. He did not look down on us; rather, he shared in our struggles and our triumphs with a large-heartedness that is rare in today’s world. Even though we did not lift the physical trophy at the end of the final whistle, the consensus among the players and supporters was unanimous: MOK has won our hearts. His genuine virtues provided a sense of security and belonging that made every minute on the pitch feel like a victory for our collective future.
His support was tangible and tireless. He provided full football kits for every player and ensured we had the resources necessary to compete at our best. Yet, his message remained consistent: winning the trophy was never the ultimate goal. For MOK, the true prize lies in building friendships, extending prosperous relationships, and creating networking opportunities. He views sports as a bridge to a more prosperous Kwara, fueled by shared love and a communal hope that outlasts any ninety-minute match.
What truly sets him apart is a kindness that knows no boundaries. MOK didn’t just provide relief to his own team; he extended his hand to support other teams who were in need during the competition. This “philanthropic activism” is not a new development. Having spent a decade in the nonprofit sector, I have seen the inner workings of many organizations. When I look at the MOK Foundation, I see a gleaming jewel as a well-oiled machine where management is shrewd yet compassionate, and every program is a tapestry of innovation and heart.
The foundation’s activities are a testament to a leader who values people over prestige. Whether it is through sports, education, or community outreach, the goal is always the same: empowerment. We have seen how his intervention turns “the rocky” into “the smooth,” providing a platform for Kwara’s youth to shine regardless of their background. It is this consistency in character that has built a bridge of trust between the foundation and the people it serves.
As we reflect on the dust settling from PWKY 5.0, we recognize that trophies can gather dust and titles can be forgotten, but the way a person makes you feel stays forever. MOK didn’t just invest in a football team; he invested in the human spirit. He showed us that leadership is about being present, being kind, and being selfless. In a world that often prioritizes the scoreboard, he reminded us to prioritize the person standing next to us.
Today, we offer more than just a thank you; we offer our prayers for his continued success. May he be granted everlasting happiness, divine guidance, and a long life filled with sound health and increasing wealth. The trophy may have gone elsewhere this year, but the love and loyalty of the youth are firmly with Muideen Kayode Okunlola. We are honored to play for a man whose vision for Kwara is as vast as his heart.
