The Ibidunni Ighodalo Foundation (IIF) has announced the commencement of its 40@40 initiative in memory of its founder.
Ibidunni, founder of the foundation and wife of Ituah Ighodalo, senior pastor of Trinity House Church, Lagos, died on June 14, 2020.
The foundation raises awareness on issues pertaining to infertility and also provides grants for couples that require fertility treatments such as in-vitro fertilisation (IVF) and intrauterine insemination.
Speaking during the launch of the project, Ituah, chairman of the foundation, said the initiative involves granting 40 couples “in dire need of reproductive interventions the opportunity to become parents”.
He said the project was part of the deceased’s plans to celebrate her 40th birthday which was slated for July 19, 2020.
Ighodalo noted that his late wife understood the emotional and financial strain that comes with fertility treatments and as a result of this, she made it a duty to help struggling parents achieve the goal of having children.
He added that the board of IIF is determined to ensure that the deceased’s last wish is fulfilled.
“We understand the emotional, psychological and financial strain that comes with pursuing fertility treatments and having gone through that pain herself, Ibidunni in her lifetime made it her life’s work to help desiring but struggling parents; we are committed to Ibidunni’s vision to give joy and keep hope alive,” he said.
“Since her demise, IIF has enlarged and strengthened its board; governance structures have been put in place all in a bid to ensure capacity to deliver on her last wish and more. A transparent application and selection process has been put in place and we actively seek the support of everyone to keep this dream alive.”
The chairman said certain technicalities must be met by applicants to ensure that the grants are made available to those who need them the most.
He added that more information on criteria is available on all the foundation’s platforms and urged interested applicants and donors to visit the foundation’s website — www.ibidunnifoundation.org.
He appealed to well-meaning Nigerians to assist in raising the needed funds, as the foundation is targetting N150 million for the project.
“Those who wish to support the foundation financially and in other ways are also encouraged to do so,” he said.
“The foundation has always run on self-funding and private donors. Due to the enormous project ahead of us, we are seeking donations from good people like you and the general public. Please join us to make impact.
“We are putting in structures, board of directors, accounting audit; we are going to be accountable for every penny we get.”
Adedayo Richard, executive secretary of the foundation, also added that the annual activities of the foundation will continue.
She listed them to include the flagship IVF annual grants; the mothers in waiting conference; the babies day out; hospital visits, among others.
“IIF, also known for their advocacy against stigmatisation, will continue their active sensitisation programmes,” she said.
