The gala brought together more than 350 guests, including the First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, who delivered the keynote address, alongside Ministers, Governors, Ambassadors, and senior representatives from the private and development sectors.

With strong support from SHOM and the diplomatic community, the evening underscored a shared belief in the power of creativity in transforming education in a way that is inclusive, accessible, and rooted in local realities.

Funds raised will help Five Cowries expand its impact across Nigeria, building on its track record of reaching over 250,000 learners through initiatives such as Mu Shuka Iri, Zinariya, and the Aunties Programme.

In her address, the First Lady highlighted the alignment between Five Cowries’ community-driven model and Nigeria’s national development priorities under the Renewed Hope Agenda.

She said:

“By supporting the Five Cowries initiative, we are reiterating our commitment to promoting education and fostering inclusive development across our local communities, dignity, in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda and our shared commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals.”

Polly Alakija, Five Cowries CEO, expressed gratitude for the support shown by SHOM, the First Lady, and all event partners: 

“We are honoured by SHOM’s commitment and deeply grateful for Her Excellency’s recognition of our work. This evening is a powerful reminder of what can be achieved when global and local actors come together to drive inclusive education, creativity, and restore agency to communities. With this support, we are better placed to deepen our impact and expand to more Local Government Areas across Nigeria.”

The SHOM Charity Gala 2025 served as a powerful platform for cross-cultural partnership and reaffirmed the role of arts-based education in delivering inclusive, community-driven solutions to improving learning outcomes in Nigeria.