In a heartwarming celebration of academic excellence, Hon. Mudashiru Kamorudeen, the Executive Chairman of Lagelu Local Government, has honored Uthman Uthman Olayode, a Lalupon native and the overall best graduating student from Abiola Ajimobi Technical University (Tech-U), for achieving an extraordinary 4.98 CGPA. The event, held on Tuesday at the local government council secretariat in Iyana-Offa, saw Uthman celebrated with public recognition, a cash prize, and a transformative pledge to support his master’s degree, cementing Lagelu’s commitment to nurturing its brightest talents.
Uthman’s journey to this moment is a testament to resilience and determination. Born to a primary school teacher, Alhaji Uthman Kamorudeen Afolayan, and a firewood seller, Uthman grew up in humble circumstances in Lalupon, a community in Lagelu.
His path to higher education was fraught with challenges, as he faced rejection four times in the Joint Admission and Matriculation Board (JAMB) exam.
Undeterred, Uthman persevered, succeeding on his fifth attempt and earning a full scholarship from Lagelu Local Government to attend Tech-U. That opportunity became the springboard for his remarkable academic ascent.
On Friday- the 11th of April, at Tech-U’s convocation ceremony, Uthman stood tall as the university’s top graduate, with his 4.98 CGPA as a shining beacon of excellence.
Reflecting on his achievement, he credited the Lagelu scholarship for making his dream possible. “Without this support, I might not be standing here today,” Uthman said, his words resonating with gratitude for the community that believed in him.
Moved by Uthman’s triumph, Hon. Kamorudeen acted swiftly to celebrate the young scholar. Collaborating with Hon. Victor Olojede, Senior Special Assistant to Governor Seyi Makinde on Student Affairs, Chairman Kamorudeen’s team brought Uthman, his parents, and siblings to the council for a ceremony that radiated pride and hope.
There, Uthman received public recognition and a cash prize, tokens of Lagelu’s admiration for his academic prowess and a signal of its unwavering investment in its youth.
In his words, the senior special assistant on student affairs to Oyo State Governor, Mr. Victor Olojede appraised Lagelu chairman for having his eye around young people and never letting them down.
The ceremony was deeply emotional. Uthman spoke with clarity, emphasizing the scholarship’s pivotal role in his success. His father, Alhaji Afolayan, visibly moved, expressed profound gratitude to Lagelu and Governor Makinde’s administration for providing his son with a life-changing opportunity.
“This is what hope looks like,” he said, his voice thick with pride.
In a bold and visionary move, Hon. Kamorudeen announced that Lagelu Local Government will be in support of Uthman’s master’s degree program, ensuring his academic journey continues to inspire.
“Uthman’s story is not just his own—it’s a call to action,” Kamorudeen declared. “There are more young minds like him, waiting for their chance. We are committed to a Lagelu where every child, no matter their background, has access to an education worthy of their talent.”
Kamorudeen’s pledge extends beyond Uthman. His administration is championing expanded scholarships and opportunities to unearth and uplift more talents across Lagelu. “When we invest in our youth, they don’t just succeed—they redefine what’s possible,” he said, his words met with resounding applause.
Uthman’s story—from a boy who refused to let failure define him to a scholar who has made his community proud—has become a powerful symbol of hope. determined to build a brighter future.
