Our story
A Legacy of Business Culture & Philanthropy
The Lababidi family’s story is one of vision, compassion, and a profound commitment to culture, community, and philanthropy. This legacy has been shaped by the inspiring partnership of Chief Maan Lababidi and his wife, Chief Mrs. Lesley Lababidi, whose contributions extend across continents and disciplines.
Chief Maan Lababidi, a distinguished businessman and philanthropist, has built a legacy rooted in giving back. His business success in Nigeria was not merely a personal achievement but a foundation for creating lasting community impact. With the establishment of the Fou’ad and Sa’adia Lababidi Foundation in 1993, he formalized his lifelong mission to uplift lives through education, healthcare, and cultural preservation.
Our Story
Continuing Impact Over Decades
At his side is Chief Mrs. Lesley Lababidi, whose work and recognition span far beyond the philanthropic. Honored with multiple Nigerian chieftaincy titles, including her most recent, Jikadiyan Gargajiya Nupe from His Royal Highness Alhaji Yahaya Abubakar Etsu Nupe, she has dedicated her life to documenting and celebrating Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage. Her documentary on ancient glass production, The Lost Legacy of Bida Bikini, has not only preserved this art form but also earned recognition by the British Museum, where it is prominently featured.
- Recipient of Nigerian Chieftaincy Titles
- Research on Masagá Glass Makers of Bida
- Trilogy Red Walls of Bida: Glass Bangles ,Between Two Rivers: Bida, City of the Nupe , Indigo and the Durbar
- Rituals, Religious practices, and glass/glass bead making in Ile-Ife and Bida, Nigeria, The British Museum’s Endangered Material Knowledge Program (EMKP)
- Masaga Glass Makers Permanent Exibition at Corning Museum of Glass
- Co-presenter at 1st International Conference on Nupe Studies, Bayero University, Kano
Vital Community Needs & Shared Vision
A published author and cultural historian, Mrs. Lababidi’s international acclaim is further highlighted by her blog Nomad4Now, where she shares insights into Nigeria’s vibrant traditions, including the iconic Durbar festivals. Her dedication to bridging cultures, through both words and action, has cemented her reputation as a global advocate for preserving heritage and empowering communities.
Together, Chief Maan and Chief Mrs. Lesley Lababidi have created a family legacy that marries business, culture, and humanity. Through their shared vision, the Lababidi Foundation continues to address vital community needs, while also championing Nigeria’s rich history and traditions on an international stage.
Their story is not only a testament to their individual and shared accomplishments but also a reminder of the transformative power of purpose-driven lives.
Mission
To create lasting impact by empowering communities through education, cultural preservation, and sustainable development. Guided by compassion and integrity, we strive to uplift the underserved, foster opportunities for growth, and contribute to a brighter, more inclusive future.
Vision
- Empowering Individuals – Creating opportunities for personal growth and success.
- Strengthening Communities – Fostering shared prosperity and sustainable development.
- Upholding Values – Promoting kindness, service, and resilience for a better future.
The documentary The Lost Legacy of Bida Bikini, featured by the British Museum.
Our team
Dedication to impacting lives
As a team, we pledge to continue empowering communities, driving positive change, and fostering a future where every individual thrives.
Chief Maan Lababidi
Founder
Alhaji Giazu I. Sule
MD
Mrs Lesley Lababidi
Founder
Chief Gbemiga A. Oludemi
Director
Mr Omar M. Lababidi
Director
Mr Abdulrahman A. Shomala
Project Head
Mrs Florence E. Umoru
HR Manager
Partners
Our Partners and collaborators
Without your unwavering support and collaboration, we would not be able to make the meaningful impact we strive for in the communities we serve.
