The 15th convocation ceremony of Joseph Ayo Babalola University (JABU) took on a celebratory tone as Senator Oluremi Tinubu, First Lady of Nigeria, announced a ₦50 million endowment fund dedicated to rewarding the institution’s top female graduates.
Represented by Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji, First Lady of Ekiti State, at the event, Tinubu also received an honorary doctorate degree in recognition of her contributions to education and society.In her address, Senator Tinubu expressed her deep commitment to education as a tool for societal transformation. She stated, “
It brings me great joy to establish this ₦50 million endowment fund to reward the best-performing female graduates of JABU, starting with this year’s top graduate. Supporting education is one of the most impactful ways to invest in the future.”
The university’s Pro-Chancellor, Dr. Joash Amupitan, detailed the structure of the endowment. Each year, for the next decade, ₦5 million will be awarded to the overall best female graduate under the newly created Senator Oluremi Tinubu Prize for Academic Excellence.
He praised the initiative as a testament to the senator’s dedication to promoting academic achievement and empowering women in Nigeria. “This award underscores the importance of celebrating excellence and ensuring that exceptional efforts are recognized,” Amupitan remarked.
This year’s prize marks the beginning of a legacy, with the inaugural recipient already reaping the benefits of the fund. The award symbolizes hope for future female scholars striving for excellence in their academic pursuits.
Addressing the gathering, the Vice Chancellor, Professor Olaosebikan Fakolujo, congratulated the 626 graduating students, which included 50 first-class honorees, 290 second-class upper achievers, and others in various divisions. Fakolujo encouraged the graduates to carry forward JABU’s principles of knowledge and godly service, stating, “You are leaving here equipped to make meaningful contributions to society. Be proud ambassadors of JABU and role models for others.”
The convocation ceremony was a moment of reflection and celebration, highlighting the strides made by the university in fostering academic brilliance. Tinubu’s generous gesture reinforces her legacy as a champion of education and gender empowerment. It also serves as an enduring reminder of the transformative power of philanthropy in shaping a brighter future for Nigeria.
