In life, politics and power shape opportunities, but true influence comes from how we use them to uplift others.
Toyin Niyi Folorunso (Akanni Of Lagos).
AKANNI OF LAGOS
Financial Professional · Brand Strategist · Global Affairs Analyst
Meet Akanni of Lagos
Toyin Niyi Folorunso, also known as Akanni of Lagos, is a Financial Professional, Strategist, and Consultant with a global outlook, empowering businesses, leaders, and communities through finance, innovation, and sustainable growth. He is the Founder of Akannioflagos Limited and Convener of The Leverage Summit, a global platform for dialogue on geopolitics, business, leadership, and policy. Toyin holds a Diploma in Accounting, a B.Sc. in Economics from the prestigious Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, and a Master’s Degree in Finance and Financial Analytics (with Distinction) from the University of New Haven, USA, where he was inducted into the Beta Gamma Sigma Honor Society for academic excellence.
With experience as a brand strategist and consultant, he has worked with multinational corporations, government agencies, and private individuals across diverse sectors including banking and technology. His leadership and service have been recognized with honors such as the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Visionary Award. Toyin also serves as a Royal Ambassador to the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, and is a life member of the Royal Court of Ile-Ife Kingdom. A staunch believer in the Gospel of Jesus Christ, he grounds his vision and impact in faith, excellence, and purpose-driven leadership.
Future Projects
The AOL Foundation is committed to empowering Africa’s next generation. Between 2023 and 2025, we provided scholarships to over 150 underprivileged students in Nigeria, ensuring access to quality education. Looking ahead, we aim to expand our reach through STEM & Innovation Hubs, leadership and mentorship programs, youth entrepreneurship initiatives, and community development projects in Africa, because every child deserves the chance to thrive. #EducateAfricanChild
The AOL Scholars
Empowering Africa’s next generation of STEM leaders, TAS provides scholarships, mentorship, and international opportunities to outstanding young students. Established in loving memory of my late FATHER, whose life continues to form the basis of what it means to me to live and work for the people, most especially the CHILDREN of nobody, TAS will, this year, support FOUR exceptional students by sending them to some of the best universities in Nigeria, with tuition fully covered throughout their university education by the AOL Foundation and we hope to do more.
Our Mission
The Akanni of Lagos (AOL) Foundation exists to empower individuals, uplift communities, and create opportunities for meaningful impact across Africa and beyond. Through initiatives like The Leverage Summit, a global platform for dialogue on leadership, business, policy, and innovation, The AOL Scholars (TAS) program, and community development projects, we provide education, mentorship, and international exposure to nurture the next generation of leaders, innovators, and changemakers.
We believe that every child and young person, regardless of background, deserves the tools and guidance to reach their full potential, and that empowering individuals today can transform communities, drive sustainable development, and shape a better tomorrow.
Our Core Values
- Insight – Turning knowledge into clarity.
- Innovation – Bold ideas, real solutions.
- Impact – Creating change that lasts.