An alumnus of Abiodun Atiba Memorial Institute, Oyo, Mr. Babatunde Tijani, has donated N1 million to reward exceptional graduating students and appreciate teachers, reaffirming his commitment to promoting academic excellence and giving back to the school that shaped his future.
Tijani announced the donation during the school’s 45th valedictory service, where he was the special guest of honour.
The package included N200,000 each for the best graduating students in Science, Arts and Commerce, N200,000 for the overall best graduating student, and another N200,000 for the school’s staff to host a refreshment in recognition of their dedication.
Represented by his sister, Ms. Omobola Tijani, the donor said the gesture was inspired by gratitude to the institution and the enduring values it instilled in him.
She recalled that their late father, Alhaji (Chief) Abdul Lateef Eyitayo Tijani, served as Vice Principal of the school between 1981 and 1988, describing him as an educationist who upheld discipline, character and academic excellence.
She added that her brother, who graduated from the school 37 years ago, remained deeply grateful for the foundation he received at the institution, noting that it had played a significant role in his personal and professional journey.
Addressing the graduating students, Tijani urged them to remain focused despite life’s challenges, stressing that good character would open more doors than academic certificates alone.
He encouraged them to pursue their dreams with courage, integrity and faith, adding that society needs disciplined, diligent and God-fearing young people.
Tijani also commended parents, guardians, teachers and the school management for their sacrifices and commitment to nurturing future leaders.
In his welcome address, the Principal, Mr. Rasak Reheem, thanked Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde for creating a conducive environment for teaching and implementing policies that have improved teachers’ welfare.
He challenged the graduating students to see their secondary school education as a stepping stone to greater achievements, urging them to set higher goals and prepare for tertiary education while avoiding social vices such as drug abuse, cybercrime, prostitution and alcoholism.
Reheem further praised Tijani for his longstanding support for the school, revealing that he had previously funded several multimillion-naira projects, 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 beneficiaries, the overall best graduating student and best Science student, Philip Abimbola, expressed appreciation to Tijani for the generous reward and thanked the school’s management for providing a conducive learning environment.
At the award presentation, Abimbola received N400,000 after emerging as both the overall best graduating student and the best Science student. Khadijat Abdulwahab received N200,000 as the best Commerce student, while Rodiat Isiaka was presented with N200,000 for emerging as the best Arts student.
