United States-based Nigerian philanthropist and reality TV star Faith Morey has taken a significant step toward strengthening educational development in West Africa. On January 25th, she met with Her Excellency Fatoumatta Bah-Barrow, First Lady of The Gambia, to discuss strategic initiatives aimed at enhancing education and community development in both Nigeria and The Gambia.
The meeting, which followed key school visits, explored potential collaborations between Morey’s Okachi Charity Foundation (OCF) and the Fatoumatta Bah-Barrow (FAAB) Foundation. Her Excellency commended OCF’s impactful work, particularly its adoption of six schools that currently support over 8,000 children through initiatives such as free volunteer teachers, playgrounds, and essential learning materials. She also inquired about challenges faced by the visited schools and how OCF could further expand educational opportunities for Gambian children.
A key highlight of the discussion was the shared vision of both foundations in addressing critical issues such as women’s health, children’s welfare, and community development. Morey reaffirmed her commitment to integrating insights from the visit into OCF’s 2025 Summer School Program while also sharing key findings with the Commissioner of Education in Rivers State to influence policy and educational practices in Nigeria.
A shared priority between OCF and FAAB emerged—the need for enhanced teacher training to better identify and support children with disabilities, fostering a more inclusive and equitable educational system. Speaking on the collaboration, Faith Morey emphasized the importance of building sustainable educational frameworks that empower children for the future. “Education is the foundation for lasting change. Our goal is to bridge gaps, provide opportunities, and create an environment where every child can thrive,” she stated.
Her Excellency Fatoumatta Bah-Barrow reaffirmed her dedication to championing education and social welfare, stressing that partnerships like these set the stage for transformative initiatives that will shape the future of countless children. The meeting concluded with a shared vision for long-term collaboration, emphasizing sustainable development and innovative solutions to address educational challenges in the region.