An alumnus of Abiodun Atiba Memorial Institute, Oyo, Mr. Babatunde Tijani, has donated ₦1 million to reward outstanding graduating students and teachers as part of efforts to give back to his alma mater and promote academic excellence, diligence and hard work among students.
Tijani made the donation during the school’s 45th valedictory service, where he served as the special guest of honour.
He announced cash prizes of ₦200,000 each for the best graduating students in Science, Arts and Commerce, as well as ₦200,000 for the overall best graduating student. Tijani also donated ₦200,000 to the school’s staff for refreshments in appreciation of their dedication and service.
Represented at the event by his sister, Ms Omobola Tijani, the donor said the gesture reflected both gratitude to the institution and a commitment to encouraging academic excellence.
“My brother is a proud son of the late Alhaji (Chief) Abdul Lateef Eyitayo Tijani, who served this great institution diligently as vice principal from 1981 to 1988. My father was an educationist par excellence, a man who believed in discipline, character and academic excellence.
“My brother is also filled with gratitude because 37 years ago, he walked through the gates of this same Abiodun Atiba Memorial Institute as a student. The foundation, values and training he received here have been instrumental in his journey through life,” she said.
In a message to the graduating students, Tijani urged them not to be discouraged by life’s challenges but to remain focused and uphold the values instilled in them.
“To our dear graduating students, today marks the end of one chapter and the beginning of another. Your certificate is important, but your character will take you further. As you step out into the world, chase your dreams with courage, integrity and faith.
“The world needs young men and women who are not only educated but also disciplined, diligent and God-fearing,” Tijani stated.
He also congratulated the parents, guardians, teachers and the school’s management for their sacrifices and unwavering support.
“To the teachers and management, we celebrate you. Thank you for your patience, dedication and for moulding these students into the leaders of tomorrow,” he added.
In his welcome address, the school’s principal, Mr Rasak Reheem, expressed appreciation to Oyo State Governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde for creating a conducive environment for teachers to perform their duties and for implementing worker-friendly policies.
He urged the graduating students to regard their secondary school education as a foundation for greater achievements.
“One success leads to another challenge that demands another success, and so it continues throughout life. Therefore, there is a great task ahead of you. Aim higher, set your goals and develop strategies to overcome obstacles in order to attain true success. Tertiary institutions are waiting for you, and you must make one of them your next destination,” he said.
Reheem also advised the students to be worthy ambassadors of the school by shunning social vices such as alcoholism, prostitution, cybercrime and drug abuse.
He commended Tijani for his consistent contributions to the development of the school, particularly in infrastructure and student empowerment.
The principal noted that Tijani had previously executed several multimillion-naira projects for the school, including the renovation of a six-classroom block, donation of 240 modern desks and chairs, installation of a modern borehole, renovation of the school mosque and annual sponsorship of the TJ BABS House during the school’s inter-house sports competition.
Speaking on behalf of the award recipients, the overall best graduating student and best Science student, Philip Abimbola, thanked Tijani for the generous donation and praised the school’s management for providing a conducive learning environment.
The ceremony featured the presentation of awards to outstanding students. Abimbola received a total of ₦400,000 after emerging as both the overall best graduating student and the best Science student. Khadijat Abdulwahab, who topped the Commerce class, received ₦200,000, while Rodiat Isiaka, the best Arts student, was also awarded ₦200,000.
