EXECUTIVE SUMMARY:
SIR G.L.I OPIEPE’S HEALTH AND EDUCATION FOUNDATION PROFILE
“Heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse those who have leprosy, drive out demons. Freely you have received; freely give.” ~ Matthew 10:8.

Sir G.L.I. Opiepe’s Health and Education Foundation, a non-profit organization spearheaded by Dr. Philomena Ikowe (Nèe Opiepe), a Harvard Medical School alumna, and distinguished medical practitioner with a wealth of experience spanning two decades, has honed her expertise through extensive academic pursuits and practical engagements both locally and internationally. The foundation, steered by Dr. Philomena Ikowe, in collaboration with close members of her family, was founded in 2019 and formally registered in 2023.

Named in honor of their beloved father, the visionary philanthropist and educationist, Sir Gabriel Louis Ihieje Opiepe, KSJI, who hails from Ainakpo-Olachor, Okpoma-Yala, Cross River State, Nigeria in West Africa, the foundation envisions a world where essential healthcare and quality education are not luxuries but inalienable rights accessible to all strata of society.

The Sir G.L.I. Opiepe’s Foundation is committed to revolutionizing healthcare and educational landscapes in Nigeria. The Foundation’s target population is the aged and vulnerable children in various communities across the following States: Cross River State (Yala and Ogoja LGAs); Benue State (Katsina Ala LGA)Plateau Sate (Jos) and the FCT (Abuja). However, while the current target audience of this foundation is in Nigeria, it is expected that in the coming years, the work of the foundation will extend to other countries especially in the United States of America where the focus will be on addressing health needs of the vulnerable population locally and internationally as well as supporting the various projects of this foundation in the 3rd and 4th world countries around the globe.

Central to the foundation’s mission is the strategic elimination of disparities in healthcare and educational opportunities, ensuring equitable access for all individuals to flourish. The foundation endeavors to uphold their father’s noble legacy by effecting tangible change in communities. This is achieved through a multifaceted approach encompassing the provision of complimentary medical services, scholarships, vocational training, housing assistance, educational resources, borehole installations for clean water access, clothing distribution, and food aid.

The Sir G.L.I Opiepe’s Health and Education Foundation also makes conscious efforts to support evangelization by supporting vocations to the Priesthood and Religious life in the Catholic Church. Due to its strong Catholic background of which the Late Sir G.L.I. Opiepe was a knight in the church and all his children are very dedicated and active in the church matters, the foundation has made it a point of duty to always support men and women embracing the priesthood and religious life. Over the years they have been able to provide new Priests with mass box for the celebration of mass and also provide bibles and other religious paraphernalia to children and adults receiving the Sacrament of Baptism and Confirmation in the church as well as daily sharing of scripture reflections.

The testimonies from individuals benefiting from these projects highlight the profound impact the foundation has had on their lives. Through these comprehensive approach, the foundation has positively impacted the communities they serve by improving health outcomes, enhancing educational opportunities, fostering economic empowerment, and better living for her beneficiaries.

In addition, the foundation provides free medical services to those in need, ensuring that basic healthcare is accessible to all. The skill acquisition programs empower individuals with the tools they need to secure sustainable livelihoods. In a country where housing is a major problem for the weak and vulnerable, the Sir G.L.I Opiepe’s Foundation housing support initiatives aim to provide safe and secure shelter for vulnerable populations.

To continue their impactful work, they rely on support from individuals and organizations who share their vision for a healthier and more educated society. Their needs include financial support for sustaining and expanding their programs, medical equipment to enhance the quality of the healthcare services, mobile clinics for reaching remote communities, and labor equipment for skill development initiatives.

With the collective effort and support of their partners, donors, and volunteers, they can continue to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those they serve. Together, they can empower communities, transform lives, and build a brighter future for all. Join them in this mission to create a world where health and education and basic needs are truly accessible rights for everyone.

Thank you, and God bless you all. Blessings and Love always, Dr. Philomena Ikowe (Nèe Opiepe) Founder and Director of the Sir G.L.I Opiepe’s Health and Education Foundation