By Omolola Dede Adeyanju

The Hope Collective (THC), a nonprofit organisation dedicated to restoring hope, empowering individuals, strengthening communities, and promoting unity across Nigeria, has unveiled plans for a unique football match featuring Muslims and Christians on mixed teams.

The event, scheduled for April 18, 2025, is part of a series of activities that also includes a family-friendly gathering on April 19 and a “National Unity” event on May 1 (Workers’ Day). These events will culminate in THC’s major fundraising effort on May 17, aimed at supporting the expansion of its ongoing programs.

These plans were shared during THC’s Founder’s Programme, themed “Reigniting Passion in the Nigerian Dream,” which took place in Lagos on Saturday. In his keynote address, “Trusting the Path to Nigeria’s Dream,” THC Chairman Mr. Samson Agboola outlined the purpose of the event: to inspire a new generation of Nigerians who believe in both their own dreams and the potential of the nation.

He stressed the importance of spreading hope through lectures, dialogues, empowerment initiatives, cultural programmes, and grants, while acknowledging the challenges ahead and calling for faith in Nigeria’s systems and leadership.

“We must reassess the sources of truth we rely on about Nigeria, some of which are intentionally misleading and designed to undermine our hope,” Agboola stated. He continued, “Sometimes, even a gift of 100 naira can give a hopeless person a reason to keep going for another day. One Nigerian at a time, we are spreading hope through cash grants, uplifting messages, mentorship programmes, empowerment schemes, cultural revival, and simple acts of kindness that can lift the spirits of those who are struggling.”

Reflecting on Nigeria’s history, Agboola remarked, “Nigeria’s story as a nation was shaped through complex forces, including the 1914 amalgamation under Lord Frederick Lugard. Yet, its essence transcends any one vision and is rooted in a collective strength that we may not fully comprehend—a foundation that continues to hold us together.”

He called for unity: “To spread hope more quickly, we need a collective of individuals and organisations who haven’t given up on Nigeria or the Nigerian Dream. Join us in igniting passion, restoring faith, and creating the Nigeria we dream of.” Agboola reaffirmed THC’s ambition for a Nigeria that excels globally, built on sustainable change and fundamental truths.

Mr. Ahmed, THC’s Director of Coordination, delivered a concise presentation on the organisation’s mission, vision, core programmes, and values, reinforcing THC’s role as a symbol of hope and a catalyst for grassroots change. Speaking virtually from France, Mrs. Ayaba of Good Samaritan Outreach shared a message of goodwill, urging resilience and pledging her support to THC’s mission.

Agboola drew attention to the THC Dreamers Programme, which recently awarded a ¦ 200,000 scholarship and school supplies to Michael Gift, a talented student from Gleam Stars College, Ajegunle, who was struggling to pay school fees.

This, he said, encapsulates THC’s core mission—to restore hope and unlock potential. He also mentioned cash awards and food distribution efforts in the communities of Oregbile, Surulere, and Ajegunle as further examples of THC’s outreach.

The Founder’s Programme underscored THC’s transformative vision: igniting hope, rediscovering personal and collective dreams, recognising a divine foundation in Nigeria’s identity, reviving the Nigerian Dream, fostering unity in diversity, valuing cultural heritage, reinforcing family strength, and harnessing collaboration for progress.

To join or support THC, follow @Dhopecollective on X and TikTok, @dhopecollective on Instagram, or contact 08027523500 (WhatsApp only)