Oluremi Tinubu fulfils ₦10m pledge to 12-year-old Ogun artist
Nigerian First Lady Supports Young Artist with ₦10 Million Education Fund
Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has honored her commitment to support the education of 12-year-old artist Master Morenikeji Ebunoluwa Joshua with a ₦10 million contribution. The funding was announced less than a month after Tinubu was impressed by Joshua’s artistic talent during a public event.
The ₦10 million Education Development Trust Fund, which was presented to Joshua through the Ogun State Government, aims to support his educational journey through tertiary level. Tinubu made the pledge on August 18 at the launch of the South-West Zonal National Food Bank Programme, where she saw Joshua showcase a portrait of her.
Expressing her admiration for Joshua’s work, Senator Tinubu invited him to the podium and pledged the substantial amount to contribute to his future education.
At a cheque presentation ceremony, Ogun State Governor Prince Dapo Abiodun emphasized that the fulfillment of the pledge reflects a commitment to nurturing young talent in Nigeria. “A promise made is a promise kept,” he stated, reinforcing the gesture’s significance as an investment not only in Joshua’s education but also in the potential of young Nigerians.
Abiodun commended Joshua for his determination to highlight his artistic abilities and encouraged other young individuals to recognize and cultivate their talents. He highlighted the importance of self-promotion for success, noting that awareness of one’s talent is essential for gaining recognition.
The governor also shared his previous involvement in Joshua’s education, recalling how he provided a scholarship for Joshua to complete his primary and secondary education after discovering the young artist’s work at an exhibition three years ago. With the recent commitment from Senator Tinubu, Joshua’s educational support has now extended to higher education.
Governor Abiodun thanked Tinubu for her support, noting that an account has been established specifically to manage the ₦10 million fund for Joshua’s educational needs. He encouraged Joshua’s parents to continue supporting their son and urged the young artist to focus on further developing his skills.
Wahab Alawiye-King, the First Lady’s Senior Special Assistant on Strategy, who handed over the cheque to the governor, remarked that Joshua’s journey highlights the need for an educational system that recognizes diverse talents. She explained that education transcends mere academic performance and includes the development of values, emotions, and practical skills.
The Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Prof. Abayomi Arigbabu, added that this initiative is part of broader efforts to support deserving students. He revealed that 21 other students from various tertiary institutions also received financial awards.
For Joshua, the educational fund signifies more than just a monetary reward; it is a chance to pursue higher education while cultivating his artistic talent, which has garnered national attention. In response to the support, Joshua expressed his gratitude to Senator Tinubu for investing in his future. He encouraged other young individuals to identify their passions and work diligently to hone their abilities.
