The Wife of the Governor of Ekiti State, Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji, has renewed the scholarships of 50 orphans, reaffirming her commitment to ensuring that every child, regardless of background, has the opportunity to pursue education and achieve their potential.
The renewal, which covers beneficiaries from primary school through university level, was announced during a ceremony at the First Lady’s office in Ado-Ekiti.
Alongside the scholarship renewal, Dr. Oyebanji distributed school materials and cash gifts of ₦25,000 each to the beneficiaries. She described the initiative as an investment in the children’s future, aimed at empowering them to become role models for others.
Encouraging the students to remain disciplined and focused despite the loss of parental care, she reassured them:
“You are not alone. Ekiti State stands with you, and we will continue to walk beside you as you pursue your dreams. Your courage inspires us all.”
Dr. Oyebanji, who is also the convener of the Widows and Orphans Hope (WAOH) Project, expressed gratitude to stakeholders whose contributions keep the programme alive. She further commended the administration of Governor Biodun Oyebanji for its steadfast commitment to education and human capital development.
A major partner of the project, Premium Trust Bank, represented by Mrs. Moji Daramola on behalf of Managing Director Pastor Emmanuel Emefienim, said the initiative aligns with the bank’s “Give Back” agenda. He urged guardians to ensure that the support provided is used strictly for the children’s educational needs.
The Coordinator of WAOH, Dr. Kemi Dairo, described the scholarships as more than financial assistance, calling them “seeds of hope, courage, and possibility” for children who have endured pain and loss.
In their goodwill messages, the Chairman of SUBEB, Prof. Femi Akinwumi; the Commissioner for Education, Dr. Bimpe Aderiye; and the Special Adviser on Women Affairs, Mrs. Peju Babafemi, hailed the programme as a life-changing legacy. They noted that the state government has continued to prioritize education by making schools more attractive and conducive for learning.