Oyo@50: First Lady Donates Stationery To Public School Students
•••Says Education Is the Greatest Legacy
•By OYENIYI AWOJOODU
IBADAN – THE Wife of the Governor of Oyo State, Mrs Tamunominini Olufunke Makinde, on Monday empowered public school students with writing materials, describing education as the greatest legacy that can be passed on to future generations.
The event, which took place at the House of Chiefs, Secretariat, Ibadan, formed part of activities marking the 50th anniversary of the creation of Oyo State.
Addressing students, teachers and other stakeholders at the presentation ceremony, the First Lady said the initiative was deliberately designed to place children at the centre of the Oyo@50 celebrations, noting that the future growth and stability of the state depend largely on the quality of education given to its young population.
“Our children are the future of Oyo State. The state belongs to you, and if you work hard, you will inherit it and take it forward,” Mrs Makinde said.
She expressed appreciation to teachers and members of the Oyo@50 Anniversary Planning Committee for making the programme possible, stressing that education remains the most effective tool for breaking the cycle of poverty and empowering individuals to contribute meaningfully to society.
“Education is the greatest legacy we, as a government and as parents, can give to our children. When you are educated, you can lift yourself out of poverty, defend your family with a strong voice and make informed decisions for yourself and for the future of Oyo State,” she stated.
The First Lady urged the beneficiaries to make proper use of the stationery items distributed, encouraging them to cultivate strong reading habits and remain focused on their academic pursuits.
“As you receive these materials today, do not forget to enrich your brain. Read your books, make the best use of this stationery and continue to work hard. Your education is important for the growth and development of Oyo State,” she added.
Speaking at the event, the Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Hon. Olusegun Olayiwola, described the initiative as a strategic investment in the state’s future, noting that access to basic learning materials plays a critical role in improving educational outcomes.
“This programme reflects the commitment of the Oyo State Government to strengthening public education. By supporting our students with learning materials, we are laying a solid foundation for academic excellence and ensuring that no child is left behind,” Olayiwola said.
He commended teachers for their dedication and urged students to remain disciplined and committed to their studies.
Earlier in his remarks, the Chairman of the Oyo@50 Anniversary Planning Committee, Hon. Saheed Akinade Fijabi, said the Golden Jubilee celebration was designed not only to reflect on the state’s past achievements but also to invest in its future.
“Oyo@50 is about celebrating how far we have come and intentionally preparing for where we are going. The future of Oyo State lies with these children, and that is why programmes that directly impact them were carefully included in the anniversary activities,” Fijabi said.
The programme also featured quiz competitions and dance performances by students from various schools, adding colour and excitement to the event.