The Governor of Missouri, United States, Mike Parson, has praised Mr. Muritala Ayinla, a Nigerian at the University of Central Missouri, for winning the prestigious Duane R. Sterling Rotary International Scholar award.

Parson highlighted that the U.S. fosters an environment conducive to growth and the realization of dreams.

During a meeting at the Missouri State Capitol in Jefferson City with the Rotary scholar, Parson extended a warm welcome to Ayinla, acknowledging his presence at the core of Missouri’s legislative and executive governance.

He lauded Ayinla for representing both the University of Central Missouri and Nigeria admirably.

“Congratulations on becoming a Rotary scholar. The U.S. is a beacon of hope for many. I encourage you to meet Vivek Malek, the State Treasurer. Starting with just $300 upon his arrival in the U.S., he is now the state’s chief financial officer. You, too, have great potential here,” Parson said.

Furthermore, Parson commended David Pearce, the University of Central Missouri’s Executive Director for Governmental Relations, for his exceptional service and contributions as a former state lawmaker.

The Missouri State Lieutenant Governor, Mike Kehoe, while welcoming Ayinla in his office, celebrated Ayinla’s achievement in securing the Duane Sterling Scholarship. He expressed joy over organizations that positively affect people’s lives.

Ayinla, a former Nigerian journalist pursuing a postgraduate degree in technology management at the University of Central Missouri, was awarded the Duane Sterling Rotary Scholarship for the 2023–2024 academic year.

This scholarship, a collaboration between the Rotary Foundation of Rotary International and the University of Central Missouri Foundation, aims to train professionals who will develop and implement solutions to challenges in developing and emerging countries.