Ancestral Pride Foundation Empowers Ilogbo Youths with UTME Scholarships, Sparks Renewed Commitment to Education and Community Growth

Ilogbo-Asowo, a historic Awori settlement in Ado-Odo/Ota Local Government Area of Ogun State, witnessed a moment of pride and promise on Saturday, March 21, 2026, as the Ancestral Pride Foundation (APF), Ilogbo Chapter, hosted its maiden UTME Scholarship Award and Certificate Presentation at the palace of the Onilogbo.
The event, rich in cultural significance and civic engagement, drew an impressive gathering of traditional authorities, education advocates, public officials, and community stakeholders. It marked a defining stride in grassroots educational intervention, with ten deserving youths receiving sponsorship support for the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME).
In his keynote remarks, Host President and Principal of the Foundation, Chief (Dr.) Fasola Faniyi Babatunde (BSc, PGD, FICA), who also holds the revered title of Araba of Ota Kingdom, expressed profound gratitude to God for the success of the initiative. He equally extended appreciation to dignitaries whose presence and support continue to inspire the Foundation’s vision, including Dapo Abiodun, Noimot Salako-Oyedele, and Lawal Adewale Wasiu.
Chief Fasola further framed the initiative as more than a ceremonial presentation, describing it as “an investment in the future of Ilogbo.” He emphasized that the scholarships symbolize a deeper responsibility—one that calls for discipline, leadership, and a commitment to societal impact.
“Education remains the most potent instrument for social mobility and transformation,” he noted. “These young beneficiaries must see themselves not just as recipients, but as future ambassadors of excellence and change.”
Serving as Royal Father of the Day, His Royal Majesty, Oba (Barr.) Samuel Olufemi Ojugbele, the Onilogbo of Ilogbo-Asowo, lauded the Foundation’s vision and consistency. The monarch, known for his longstanding advocacy for education, reflected on his personal sacrifices in supporting students and his relentless efforts to secure educational infrastructure for the community during past administrations, including that of former Governor Gbenga Daniel.
Kabiyesi expressed deep satisfaction that a new generation of community leaders, such as Chief Fasola, is sustaining the legacy of educational advancement. “My greatest fulfillment,” he said, “is to see sons and daughters of Ilogbo rise through learning and make meaningful contributions to society.”
Goodwill messages further enriched the occasion. The Akeweje of Ilogbo-Asowo, Mr. Edeth E.A., described the scholarship as a rare and transformative opportunity, urging beneficiaries to approach their studies with dedication. He also revealed that the Foundation plans to reward the overall best-performing student with a full scholarship package.
Providing broader context, Comrade Egbewunmi Olatunji, Media Consultant to APF, highlighted the Foundation’s impressive track record spanning eight years. He referenced initiatives such as inter-school Yoruba Quiz competitions across Ado-Odo/Ota, free medical outreach programs including eye care services, and sustained support for orphanages and vulnerable populations. According to him, APF’s impact has earned recognition from reputable institutions both within Nigeria and internationally.
Education stakeholders at the event echoed similar sentiments. Damilola Oladele, Editor of The Voice Magazine, alongside Mrs. Olalekan Mary, Proprietress of E-Boat School, charged the students to remain focused and resilient. In a show of support, Mrs. Olalekan offered her school premises for free coaching sessions to further prepare the beneficiaries for academic success.
A particularly inspiring moment came from Mr. Moses Dorin, popularly known as Agba Moses, a past beneficiary of the monarch’s educational support. Sharing his journey from modest beginnings to earning a degree in Electrical/Electronics Engineering from the University of Lagos, he encouraged the students to remain steadfast. He also pledged to mentor them, especially in mathematics and science-related subjects.
The ceremony attracted notable community figures, including Youth Leader Comrade Kamarudeen Ibitoye, Women Leader Alhaja Bunmi Kadijat, Elder Bola Fatokun, Baale Omitoro, and Mr. Abideen Akinpelu, Director of Education, Lagos State, underscoring the broad-based support for the initiative.
Opening and closing prayers were offered by Sheu Abdulrasaq Arowolo and Baale Omitoro respectively, setting a solemn and hopeful tone for the occasion.
As the maiden edition of the scholarship programme came to a close, there was a shared sense of optimism among attendees. Beyond the immediate beneficiaries, stakeholders believe the initiative signals a sustainable pathway toward youth empowerment, educational excellence, and long-term community development in Ilogbo-Asowo and its environs.