Club awards bursaries, urges resilience amid economic storm

A cross section of graduating students at Pan-Atlantic University's 22nd Convocation Ceremony

To support indigent students in Ibadan, Oluyole Club, a cultural and non-political group based in Lagos, has awarded bursaries to 10 Ibadan-born students for the current academic session.

The club presented this award during its 2026 annual lecture and ceremony, themed “Riding the economic and financial storms.”

The students were selected from several 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).

Oluniyi Fatokun, the club president, stated that the organisation promotes scholarship for young Ibadan citizens by initially providing postgraduate scholarships from member-donated funds and now offering undergraduate bursaries to deserving indigent undergraduates of Ibadan origin in Nigerian Universities.

One of the recipients of the club’s postgraduate scholarship has become a professor and remains a member. Others are pursuing different paths. The bursary award recipients are also growing into adults, all working independently and making their own way.

The club also awarded meritorious service honours to several outstanding members.

They include the club’s past presidents, notable elders, and Prof Jide Owoeye, Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Lead City University Council.

Dr Bayo Olugbemi, in his lecture titled “Riding the economic and financial storms in Nigeria: Building resilience, preserving wealth, and positioning for opportunity,” urged Nigerians to develop resilience in the face of economic uncertainties. He emphasised that while financial and economic storms are unavoidable, they can be overcome.

Olugbemi 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. He emphasised 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, emphasising the importance of planning for downturns instead of reacting when crises arise.

Olugbemi also emphasised the role of faith and perseverance in navigating economic turbulence, noting that opportunities often emerge after periods of hardship.

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