Olubunmi Oni, the Head of Service (HoS) of Oyo State in collaboration with her siblings, have offered free scholarship to 45 students in memory of their late parents.
Oni who spoke with newsmen on Wednesday in Ilorin, said the programme is part of the 60th Wedding Anniversary of their late parents; Chief Joshua Ogunkeyede and Mrs Rachel Ogunkeyede.
She stated that the purpose of the Scholarship is to assist the indigent students in getting some things done academically.
According to her, since commencement of the initiative in 2024, a total of 45 pupils have benefitted from the scholarship.
The HoS pointed out that the scholarship is spread across the geopolitical zones in the country, adding that the initiative is part of the legacy of their parents which they have decided to continue with.
“They have taught us to do good within our capacity to all men.We pray it will continue. It started in 2024 and we believe we will be able to do more for the indigents that apply,” she said.
Oni explained further that the scholarship includes students in Primary, Secondary and Tertiary institutions who are studying different disciplines.
“We sometimes give laptops to some brilliant students who may not be from indigent homes. There is also monthly stipend to some indigent students on a monthly basis,” she said
The Oyo State Head of Service pointed out that the programme is aimed at celebrating the union of their late parents 60 years ago.
She explained that late Chief Joshua Ogunkeyede died in 2022, and the mother, Chief Rachel Ogunkeyede, died in 2014, while describing them as humanitarians who instilled discipline and taught them the joy in giving back to the society.
Oni also added that this is part of their efforts to also complement what the government is doing in ensuring Nigerian children get education and become productive in life.
She therefore appealed to well meaning individuals to endeavour to support the indigent in whatever way they could.
“There is no amount that is too small. We started the initiative after the demise of our parents.
“Earlier, we sponsored some students in our home-town church Emmanuel Anglican Church, Esa-Oke.
“This was in 2024 to commemorate the 10th years since the passing of our mum. Knowing that we are doing what they will love their names to be remembered for”, she said.