Ooni Awards ₦19 Million to Best Graduating Students, Innovative Lecturers at Ibadan Poly Convocation

The Ooni of Ife and Natural Head of the Oduduwa race worldwide, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, CFR, Ojaja II, on Tuesday splashed a total of ₦19 million on outstanding graduating students and lecturers of The Polytechnic, Ibadan, during the institution’s convocation ceremony held in Ibadan, Oyo State.

At the ceremony, the overall best graduating student, Kemisola Yusuf, a Microbiology graduate who recorded a 3.87 GPA, received a cash award of ₦6 million from the monarch.

In addition, six best graduating students, one from each of the institution’s six faculties, were awarded ₦1.5 million each, amounting to ₦9 million. Two lecturers, who emerged winners of the Ooni Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi Award for Innovation and Technology, also received ₦2 million each, bringing the total disbursement to ₦19 million.

Speaking at the event, Oba Ogunwusi, who is also the Permanent Chairman of the Southern Nigeria Traditional Rulers Council (SNTRC), commended the management of the Polytechnic, Ibadan, for sustaining the culture of academic excellence and quality education the institution was known for during his time as a student.

Describing the polytechnic as the foundation of his life journey, the monarch recalled his days as an Accountancy student at the institution over three decades ago.

“This citadel of learning remains my foundation in life. I left this great school 30 years ago as an accountancy student, and it is a thing of joy to reconnect with my foundation today, three decades after my graduation,” the Ooni said.

Reflecting further on his journey, he added:

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“Many years ago, I remember my days in Unity Hall and Ramat Hall, dealing with my studentship without knowing what the future held for me. Today, by the grace of God, I am the Ooni of Ife.”

The Ooni’s gesture was greeted with applause from students, lecturers, and guests, who described it as a strong encouragement for academic excellence, innovation, and commitment to education.

The awards form part of the monarch’s ongoing efforts to promote education, innovation, and youth development across Nigeria.