In a remarkable display of purpose-driven celebration, the Executive Secretary/Chief Executive Officer of the Financial Reporting Council of Nigeria (FRC) and former Commissioner for Finance in Lagos State, Dr. Rabiu Onaolapo Olowo, marked his 40th birthday by launching the Rabiu Olowo Foundation, a philanthropic initiative dedicated to tackling sickle cell disease, improving access to education, and empowering communities across Nigeria.
The foundation was officially launched at an event held on Tuesday at the Transcorp Hilton, Abuja. Themed “A Life of Purpose, A Future of Impact,” the ceremony included an inaugural lecture and a fundraising gala aimed at supporting underserved Nigerians in critical areas of healthcare, particularly sickle cell care, as well as education and community development.
The Foundation’s establishment comes ahead of the 2025 World Sickle Cell Day, celebrated globally on June 19, and is positioned to champion sustainable interventions in public health and social welfare.
In his keynote address, Dr. Olowo reflected on the personal and professional journey that inspired the foundation’s mission. “This foundation is more than just an organization it is a promise, a legacy of love, service, and hope,” he said. “Sickle cell disease is a condition that has touched me deeply. I’ve personally witnessed how this common but often misunderstood illness devastates families—especially those with limited access to quality healthcare.”
He added that education transformed his own life, giving him the tools to rise above early challenges. “In many underserved communities, opportunity is not evenly distributed. This is why I established the Rabiu Olowo Foundation—to bridge those gaps, stand in the gap, and create avenues for people not only to survive, but to thrive.”
The Board of Trustees of the Foundation included:
Dr. Rabiu Onaolapo Olowo – Founder/Chairman
Aisha Olowo – Executive Vice Chairman
Dr. Modupe Elebute-Odunsi – Member/Advisor
Ms. Adebola Adesoji – Member/Advisor
Adam Folorunsho Olowo – Secretary
The Foundation launch was held in partnership with several reputable organizations including the Lagos State Health Management Agency (LASHMA), Codix, Utica, Crimson Bow Sickle Cell Initiative, and the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN).
Delivering the keynote address, renowned philanthropist and Chairman of Heirs Holdings, Mr. Tony Elumelu, praised Dr. Olowo for choosing to celebrate his milestone by giving back to society. “This is not just a birthday; it is a clear signal of maturity, selflessness, and vision,” he remarked. “Dr. Olowo’s decision to focus on the well-being of others instead of lavish fanfare is both significant and commendable. His actions are timely and necessary for societal transformation.”
Elumelu also applauded the federal government for entrusting Dr. Olowo with a vital role at the FRC, describing him as competent and purpose-driven. “Investment in people is key to unlocking Nigeria’s economic potential and achieving sustainable development,” he stated.
Also speaking at the event, Ambassador Prof. Mahmodou M. O. Kah commended Dr. Olowo’s dual impact in both the public and private sectors, while encouraging continued service to humanity.
In her contribution, Dr. Modupe Elebute-Odunsi, a consultant hematologist and prominent sickle cell advocate, emphasized the importance of genotype screening before marriage. She called for increased public education and early intervention strategies to mitigate the burden of the disease in Nigeria, which bears the highest global prevalence.
An emotional moment came when selected sickle cell champions shared testimonies and praised Dr. Olowo for his personal intervention and financial support in their treatment journeys. “When some of us were recently hospitalized, Dr. Olowo stepped in without hesitation,” one of them shared tearfully.
Other highlights of the event included the formal unveiling of the foundation, signing of partnership MOUs, fundraising activities, entertainment, and the ceremonial cutting of Dr. Olowo’s 40th birthday cake.
The occasion attracted dignitaries from across government, the private sector, and civil society, including state government representatives, senators, federal lawmakers, development partners, and healthcare professionals.
Dr. Olowo concluded his remarks with a call to action: “We cannot do this alone. Our strength lies in our collective commitment to a better tomorrow. Thank you for standing with me tonight your belief, your presence, and your generosity will help turn this vision into lasting change. Here’s to legacy, to purpose, and to lasting impact.”
