Lagos, Nigeria – Following the recent establishment of its Lagos office, the Gbonse Foundation for Economic Development has detailed the comprehensive suite of programs it will roll out, designed to directly address economic disparities and foster sustainable development among Nigeria’s most vulnerable populations.

The Foundation’s approach prioritizes empowerment through practical skills, community engagement, and improved access to essential resources.

A key pillar of Gbonse Foundation’s strategy involves skills development.
“We aim to help to overcome poverty by equipping citizens, especially the people living at the bottom of the socio-economic pyramid, in acquiring skills and other trainings as may be deemed appropriate and necessary,” the organization stated in its program brief. These trainings are expected to range from vocational skills to entrepreneurial development, tailored to local economic needs.

Beyond individual capacity building, the Foundation is committed to community-led initiatives. “We will undertake awareness-raising and group formation for the poor, aiming at integrated development through asserting rights of the poor, education, mini-irrigation, primary healthcare, credit for income generation,” the statement outlined. This integrated approach recognizes that poverty is multi-dimensional and requires holistic solutions, empowering communities to advocate for their rights and improve their collective well-being.

To ensure long-term impact, Gbonse Foundation will also focus on knowledge dissemination and research. “We plan to organize and embark on research(es), trainings, empowerment, seminars, lectures, talk shows, workshops, Tours, amongst others, as may be beneficial to the organization, people living at the bottom of the socio-economic pyramid and society,” emphasizing a data-driven approach to program design and evaluation. Furthermore, the organization is committed “to implement easy access to information and undertake to ensure an improved standard of living for people living at the bottom of the socio-economic pyramid.”

Funding and sustainability are also critical components of the Foundation’s operational model. The group noted its intent “to apply for and raise funding and financial supports, materials and resources when the need arises from appropriate bodies/parastatals.” This proactive stance on resource mobilization is crucial for the longevity and expansion of its programs. The Foundation also indicated its intention “to give prizes, awards, honorary recognition and other related benefits to sponsors, staff, organisations, individuals and necessary bodies,” acknowledging the importance of partnerships and contributions.

With these programs, Gbonse Foundation aims to create a ripple effect, empowering individuals and communities to break cycles of poverty and build a more equitable society.