On Christmas Eve, December 24, 2024, Lagos Food Bank Initiative hosted its Annual End-of-Year Celebration at the food bank warehouse in Mangoro, Ikeja, honoring and celebrating the unwavering dedication of its volunteers in the fight against hunger and malnutrition in underserved communities.

Themed; Owambe, the event drew a vibrant turnout of volunteers in different African traditional attires, creating an atmosphere filled with joy, camaraderie, with a spirit of gratitude and unity. It was an opportunity for volunteers to unwind, network, and reflect on their collective achievements.

In his heartfelt welcome speech, Dr. Michael Sunbola, Founder and Executive Director of the Lagos Food Bank Initiative, expressed deep gratitude to the volunteers for their resilience, compassion, and steadfast commitment to the organization’s mission. He shared how their tireless efforts continue to inspire the food bank and emphasized the importance of carrying the spirit of volunteerism beyond borders to foster a world where access to sufficient and nutritious food is a reality for all. He also commended the food bank team for their hard work, which contributed to another impactful year of growth and service to humanity.

A major highlight of the event was the presentation of Leadership Excellence awards, recognizing four exceptional volunteers—Funmito Akinwunmi, Afolabi Omobolanle, Edwin Delight Loveth and Olayinka Oseni—for their outstanding commitment and leadership throughout the year. Their dedication and consistency set an exemplary standard for others to follow.

With fun activities, a live band, games, and an abundance of food and drinks, the event was a remarkable success, encapsulating the essence of volunteerism. As 2024 came to a close, the celebration served as a testament to the incredible impact that collective effort and compassion can achieve.