MTN CEO Karl Toriola announces a ₦1bn infrastructure fund at Akoraye Day in Modakeke, targeting digital education, roads, youth empowerment and community development
Big Money, Big Impact! MTN CEO Toriola Unveils ₦1bn Development Fund at Akoraye Day in Modakeke
The ancient town of Modakeke came alive with excitement and optimism as MTN Nigeria Chief Executive Officer, Karl Toriola, led a historic ₦1 billion development drive during the 2025 Akoraye Day celebrations, signalling a bold new chapter of growth for the community.
The atmosphere was electric as Prince Karl, visibly immersed in the cultural rhythms of his ancestral home, spoke passionately about the famed Akoraye spirit of resilience, stressing that it must now be matched with modern, digital-age infrastructure to secure the town’s future.
Observers at the event noted that the presence of one of Africa’s most influential corporate leaders was far more than ceremonial. It was widely seen as a personal commitment by the MTN boss to ensure Modakeke’s development keeps pace with global standards.
For residents, the sight of Toriola—recently named 2025 MIPAD “CEO of the Year”—walking through the streets of Modakeke was a powerful symbol of possibility, pride and validation of the town’s deep-rooted heritage.
A major highlight of the celebration was the announcement of a ₦1 billion Infrastructure Development Fund, targeted at digitising local education, fixing critical access roads, and strengthening youth-focused initiatives. Several of Prince Karl’s associates, many of whom were visiting Modakeke for the first time, also pledged substantial financial support to the community’s trust account.
The pooled resources are expected to fund infrastructure support, educational scholarships, and youth empowerment programmes identified by the Ogunsua-in-Council as priority areas for the 2025 Akoraye celebrations. The initiative is designed to equip the next generation of Modakeke youths with skills needed to compete effectively in the global technology-driven economy.
Beyond the financial commitments, the event doubled as a cultural masterclass. Dressed in regal traditional attire befitting his royal lineage, the MTN CEO actively participated in age-old Akoraye rites, seamlessly blending corporate sophistication with deep-rooted tradition.
His presence underscored the theme of purposeful progress, resonating strongly with both elderly custodians of Modakeke’s culture and the younger generation seeking mentorship, opportunity and inspiration.
Community leaders described the moment as a challenge to move beyond celebration toward sustainable development, urging residents to embrace a strong maintenance culture for the projects being launched.
Many attendees agreed that the 2025 Akoraye Day will be remembered as the defining moment when Modakeke successfully leveraged its most prominent global ambassador to secure its local future. With the ₦1 billion target now within reach, the palace is expected to soon announce a monitoring and implementation committee, comprising community leaders and development partners, to ensure transparent execution of all approved projects. Read Media
