Over the course of history, including the last century, the world has seen the emergence of individuals who have taken it upon themselves to use their resources to make the world a better place.
Just as the Holy Book of the Christians says, there will always be among us the poor, just as there will always be among us the privileged. Hence the worthy duty and moral obligation for humans to lend a helping hand to one another as we continually seek to make the world a better place for ourselves and the generations to come.
And it’s no secret that the history books hold many records of individuals who have made a mark for themselves by living selfless lives, one that has seen them dedicate themselves to making a difference.
Saint Teresa of Calcutta, among others, left a selfless legacy of what pure humanitarianism is; even after her death, her name still resonates.
Setting an example for all in Nigeria and on the African continent, Dr. Lola Bayode has taken it upon herself to do the unprecedented.
The Ondo-born and bred daughter of the soil is a trained medical professional, a philanthropist and a humanitarian with an unusual passion for the wellbeing of the underprivileged. Until about a year ago, she’s the Deputy Head, Social Director by the Africa Union..
Driven by pure love to help others, Dr. Lola built the biggest orphanage home in Africa, a facility that consists of 750 homes for children, a 500-capacity skill acquisition centre for women, large halls for events, a modern clinic, and a worship centre.
Ever since its official commissioning on October 14, 2021, by Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, the facility has continued to take children in their numbers, helping them create a new chapter for themselves and also renewing their hope in humanity.
In a society that boasts of various influential figures who undoubtedly have the financial means to do this, Dr. Lola, despite having no large financial prowess or holding a public office that could have attracted funds for her, has succeeded in doing what many others have failed to do.
Children whose lives would have been truncated and probably forgotten have been taken in, cared for, and nurtured to thrive. She serves as a reference point for what humanity should be all about, and it’s inspiring to see a lady like her making a difference.
Recently, a viral message made rounds on the social media. It was written by a lady identified as Oluwakemisola, who narrated how Dorian Homes took in an 11-year-old boy whose parents had neglected because his mother reportedly opted to start a prostitution job.
According to the writer of this viral post, within 24 hours of notifying Dorian Homes, the boy was taken in as a new member of the facility.
There’s no more worthwhile job than the job of helping others, showing humanity that humanity is worth saving, and for a fact, the world today is better with Dr. Lola Bayode. No doubt, the children she has saved today—those in whom she has invested her resources to give a new lease on life—would grow up to become successful in their various chosen endeavours, and they would also continue to show light to the paths of others.
While we appreciate the intervention of Dr. Lola, it’s important that we find it necessary to also contribute to the selfless legacy that she is laying. One Dr. Lola might be able to move hundreds of miles, but with the support of all, she can move a thousand more miles.
Even as she celebrates the first year anniversary of the home, which has continued to put smiles on the faces of the many, giving meaning to their lives, we must take it upon ourselves not only to celebrate her but also to ensure the sustenance of the institution which was created by her.
Our society needs more of angels like her, and we must take it upon ourselves to encourage initiatives like this, this is also a clarion call to the State government to sponsor projects like this, it is to the glory of the State when the lives of its people who have given up on life find help, having a new reason to live and survive.
The first anniversary of Dorian homes is not just a celebration of its first anniversary but it is a reminder to us all that we have our roles to play, no matter how small or insignificant.
Adesina Oluwakemi writes from Akoko
