The Stephen Akintayo Foundation has issued an official statement clarifying its decision to price products and services in US dollars, following public concerns and misconceptions about the practice.
In a statement released on Tuesday, May 20, 2025, the Foundation's Managing Director, Ikenna Mba, explained that the dollar pricing reflects the organization's international reach and operations.
"Our community includes students, clients, and partners not only in Nigeria, but across the U.S., U.K., UAE, Canada, Europe, and other parts of the world," Mba stated. "Using a globally recognized and stable currency like the U.S. dollar enables us to operate seamlessly across borders and serve our international audience effectively."
The statement emphasized that both the Stephen Akintayo Foundation and Stephen Akintayo International LLC are registered as social enterprise companies in the United States, with Dr. Stephen Akintayo currently residing there.
Addressing concerns about accessibility for Nigerian clients, Mba clarified: "While we price in dollars, clients from Nigeria are always welcome to pay the Naira equivalent—which is often even lower than the Central Bank exchange rate. This is a deliberate decision to ensure accessibility and fairness for our Nigerian community."
The Foundation maintained that the choice of currency is a practical business decision based on operational efficiency and global footprint rather than a statement on identity.
"We remain unwavering in our commitment to build with integrity, lead with trust, and empower people to succeed. These values have been the foundation of our life's work and will continue to guide everything we do," the statement concluded.