The Oluyole Club, a cultural and non-political organization based in Lagos, has awarded bursaries to 10 Ibadan-born undergraduate students for the current academic session. The initiative aims to support indigent students from Ibadan in their educational pursuits.
The bursaries were presented during the club's 2026 annual lecture and ceremony, which carried the theme "Riding the economic and financial storms." The event brought together members, award recipients, and distinguished guests to celebrate academic excellence and resilience.
The selected students are enrolled in various Nigerian universities, including the University of Lagos (UNILAG), Ladoke Akintola University of Technology in Ogbomosho, Lagos State University (LASU) in Ojo, the University of Technology in Minna, and the University of Ibadan (UI).
Commitment to Scholarship
Mr. Oluniyi Fatokun, the president of Oluyole Club, explained that the organization is dedicated to promoting scholarship among young Ibadan citizens. He noted that the club initially provided postgraduate scholarships using funds donated by members, and has now expanded to offer undergraduate bursaries to deserving indigent students of Ibadan origin in Nigerian universities.
Fatokun highlighted that one of the recipients of the club's postgraduate scholarship has become a professor and remains an active member. Other beneficiaries are pursuing diverse career paths, while the current bursary award recipients are maturing into independent adults, working hard to make their own way in life.
Meritorious Service Honours
During the ceremony, the club also conferred meritorious service honours on several outstanding members. These included past presidents of the club, notable elders, and Professor Jide Owoeye, who serves as Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Lead City University Council.
Economic Resilience Lecture
The highlight of the event was a lecture delivered by Dr. Bayo Olugbemi, titled "Riding the economic and financial storms in Nigeria: Building resilience, preserving wealth, and positioning for opportunity." Dr. Olugbemi urged Nigerians to develop resilience in the face of economic uncertainties, emphasizing that while financial and economic storms are unavoidable, they can be overcome.
He stated that no individual or nation is immune to challenges, noting that international economic pressures continue to affect countries, including Nigeria. Drawing on biblical teachings, he highlighted that while tribulations are inevitable, hope and the ability to overcome adversity remain always present.
Strategic Financial Planning
Dr. Olugbemi emphasized that Nigerians should adopt intentional, strategic, and future-oriented approaches to financial planning. He advised individuals and business owners to stay disciplined, consistent, and diligent, stressing the importance of planning for downturns instead of reacting when crises arise.
He also underscored the role of faith and perseverance in navigating economic turbulence, noting that opportunities often emerge after periods of hardship. The lecture resonated with attendees, who were encouraged to build resilience and position themselves for future success.
