Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, has fulfilled her ₦10 million education pledge to 12-year-old Ogun State artist, Morenikeji Ebunoluwa Joshua.
The money, presented through the Ogun State Government, will support Joshua’s education up to the tertiary level.
Tinubu made the pledge on August 18 after seeing Joshua display a portrait he had painted of her during the launch of the South-West Zonal National Food Bank Programme at the Cultural Centre, Kuto, Abeokuta.
Impressed by his artistic talent, the First Lady invited the young artist to the podium and announced the ₦10 million Education Development Trust Fund for his future studies.
Presenting the cheque on her behalf, Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun described the gesture as proof that a promise made should be kept.
Abiodun recalled that he had also supported Joshua three years ago after seeing his artwork at an exhibition in his office. After learning that the young artist was still in primary school, the governor provided a scholarship covering his primary and secondary education.
With Tinubu’s latest intervention, Joshua’s educational support has now been extended to university level.
The governor disclosed that a dedicated account had been opened to preserve the ₦10 million fund for Joshua’s educational needs. He also urged the boy’s parents to continue supporting his talent.
The First Lady’s Senior Special Assistant on Strategy, Wahab Alawiye-King, said Joshua’s story demonstrated the importance of recognising different forms of talent, noting that education should also develop practical skills and creativity.
Ogun State Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Prof. Abayomi Arigbabu, added that the initiative formed part of broader efforts to support promising young people. He disclosed that 21 tertiary institution students had also received financial awards.
Joshua expressed gratitude to Tinubu for recognising and supporting his talent, encouraging other young people to discover their passions, work hard and continue developing their abilities.
