A significant financial milestone has been reached for Ahmed Salami, a young Nigerian vlogger living with autism, cerebral palsy, and ADHD. A dedicated trust fund, established in honour of his late mother, Rafat Salami, has garnered over 5.5 million Nigerian Naira. This substantial sum was formally presented to Jameel Salami, Ahmed’s elder brother and caregiver, as part of the “Guardians of Ahmed” initiative.

The Ahmed Salami Trust Fund, opened with Fidelity Bank, is set to provide ongoing support for Ahmed’s care and well-being. The announcement was made in Abuja, strategically timed ahead of the first anniversary of Rafat Salami’s passing on December 20, 2024. The presentation of the bank statement aimed to assure donors and the public of transparent financial stewardship.

Details revealed during the handover ceremony indicated a total of N5,528,105.43 deposited into the trust fund. This figure comprises contributions from key organizers, including Lara Owoeye-Wise, coordinator of Guardians of Ahmed, who donated N3,472,436.70, and Daisy Jonathan of Warrior Mums Africa, who contributed N2,055,668.73.

Ahmed Salami himself is a signatory to the trust fund, underscoring his central role in its purpose. He will share this responsibility with a distinguished board of trustees. This board includes Dr. Jumai Ahmadu as chairman, alongside Badewa Adejugbe-Williams and Francis Mohie serving as secretary, ensuring professional oversight.

The formal handover took place during a meeting chaired by Dr. Ahmadu, who also holds a directorial position within the Federal Capital Territory Administration. The event saw the presence of various stakeholders, including representatives from educational support centres, therapeutic services, academic institutions, and financial experts from Fidelity Bank.

Jameel Salami expressed his gratitude to the “Guardians of Ahmed” for their dedication and efforts. He emphasized that the public presentation of the bank statement was crucial to allay any concerns regarding the management of the raised funds. The commitment to transparency was further highlighted by Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye of The Sun Newspapers, who confirmed the meeting’s objective was to validate fulfilled pledges.

Positive updates regarding Ahmed’s health and future were also shared. The family confirmed that Ahmed is stable and has plans to resume his vlogging activities. Robust caregiving arrangements are reportedly in place to support his continued engagement and well-being, providing reassurance to his supporters.

For those wishing to contribute directly to Ahmed’s ongoing care, donations can now be made to the Ahmed Salami Trust Fund at Fidelity Bank, account number 5601613076. The Guardians of Ahmed are encouraging supporters to consider an annual contribution of at least N12,000 to help meet Ahmed’s evolving needs and ensure his long-term comfort and development.

This initiative represents a powerful testament to community solidarity and the collective desire to support individuals with special needs. The establishment of the trust fund signifies a sustainable approach to providing for Ahmed’s future, ensuring that his mother’s legacy is honoured through tangible support and care.

The involvement of various organizations and individuals demonstrates a broad-based commitment to Ahmed’s welfare. From educational therapists to financial institutions and media professionals, the network of support highlights the growing awareness and empathy surrounding individuals with disabilities in Nigeria.

Future plans for the trust fund will likely involve strategic investment and careful management of resources to maximize its impact. The board of trustees will play a pivotal role in ensuring that the funds are utilized effectively to enhance Ahmed’s quality of life, access to therapies, and educational opportunities.

The “Guardians of Ahmed” initiative continues to be a beacon of hope, not only for Ahmed and his family but also for others facing similar challenges. Their dedication serves as an inspiration, fostering a more inclusive and supportive environment for all members of society.

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Keywords: Ahmed Salami trust fund, Rafat Salami, Guardians of Ahmed, Fidelity Bank, special needs support, vlogger autism, cerebral palsy awareness, Nigerian charity initiatives