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’98 SET EXMAYS: CELEBRATING 20 YEARS OF GRATITUDE IN IKENNE

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Discipline, sacrifice and persistence; values that defined the life of the late legend Dr Tai Solarin, founder of Mayflower School were brought to life recently in Ikenne, Ogun state, Nigeria when Old Students Association of the school who graduated from the school in 1998 celebrated the 20th year’s anniversary of their passing out. The group commonly referred to as; ‘98 EXMAYS used the occasion of the anniversary to reunite with their secondary school mates and also mentor the current students on the ideals and virtues of the Mayflower founding hero.

The arrival of members of Organizing Committee, headed by Balogun Olalekan Muri in Ikenne early Thursday signaled the commencement of the three day program held mainly between Friday 22nd June and Sunday 24th of June, 2018.

By the end of Thursday, June 21st , the ‘98 exmays began to arrive in droves. The atmosphere was one of excitement, nostalgia and plenty of backslapping as old friends reunited with their fellows whom they had not seen in decades. The anniversary ceremonies kicked off with the ’98 Exmays paying a symbolic visit to and laying of flowers at the burial grounds of the late founders, Dr. Tai and Madam Sheila Solarin.

The official anniversary activities commenced on Friday, 22nd June at 7am with the ’98 Exmays taking turns to address current students at various assembly grounds of the schools. Frank Danso, Femi Ake and Sola Kayode addressed students at the Mayflower Junior Secondary School (Public).

While at the Mayflower Public Senior Secondary School, several ’98 Exmays addressed the assembled students with motivational Speeches given by Gbenga Wahab, Ayo Mesaiyete, John Sobola, Kenny Akinola nee Ogunnaike and a host of others. Some exmays also pledged to reward any outstanding students who exceeded the performance of ‘98 sets at NECO/WAEC examinations with the various cash awards.

At the Mayflower Private School run by Madam Corin Solarin, Late Dr Tai Solarin’s daughter, ’98 Exmays, Gbenga Wahab, John Sobola and others spoke to the gathered students on the value of discipline, having a sense of self-worth and focusing on personal and academic success.

The highlight of Friday’s events was an appreciation Lunch held in honour of the former teachers who taught the ’98 set more than twenty years ago. The event held at the old yet iconic Schmidt Hall of Mayflower Public School. More than thirty former teachers who gathered at the venue were treated to sumptuous meals, heartfelt messages and gift items as a token of appreciation from their former students. This was a driven by a belief that these now elderly teachers should not get their reward only in heaven.

Mrs Kemi Yusuf, who was a Chemistry Teacher in 1998, opened the lunch session with prayers as other ex-teachers introduced themselves in turn. The former Principal, Late Segun Osiboye, was given a post humus special recognition award for his “exemplary Leadership, commitment and values” The award was received on his behalf by Pa Fasunon, the famous Yoruba Language teacher. A minute’s silence was held in his honour of teachers and exmays who had passed away. The event had special meaning for many of the teachers as it became a mini-reunion for them, as many of them had not seen each other for several years. The current Principals of Mayflower Senior School and Mayflower Junior secondary school were present and praised the set for appreciating their older colleagues.

 

What is an exmay reunion without a Bonfire Night? The ’98 exmays took some time to unwind at a bonfire night on Friday night to the delight of everyone. Dancing and singing till late, the large bonfire created the perfect backdrop for the night’s activities; a night to remember old stories and experiences from 20 years before.

On Saturday morning the ’98 exmays played a novelty football match against the current students of Mayflower School. The football event was kicked off by the current president of Mayflower Old students Association (MOSA) the umbrella body of Mayflower School Alumni. The set used the opportunity to donate Jerseys and footballs to the school team.

As the activities began to draw to end, the association had its 20th anniversary and awards night at Peak International School Hall, Ikenne Remo. Arriving on the red carpet in elegant attire, the dinner was a night of celebration, food, music and dance. The General Secretary, Gbenga Wahab, representing the President, enjoined the gathered exmays to continue in the spirit and friendship and brotherliness. Guests were entertained to games, nostalgic miming and dance.

The events of the 20th anniversary ended Sunday morning, June 24th with community gatherings at both the Mayflower Public and Private Schools. ’98 exmays led the usual singing from the Merry Mayflower. Thereafter a few farewell speeches were given to the students by various exmays. Finally, various projects were donated and commissioned at both schools; A reading area for Mayflower private School and sets of furniture for Mayflower Public Schools.

 

Education

FAB Luxury Court Sets A Rare Benchmark For Excellence In Africa

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FAB Luxury Court Sets A Rare Benchmark For Excellence In Africa

~By Oluwaseun Fabiyi

Fab Luxury Court distinguishes itself as the premier choice for reliable investors and proactive developers in Nigeria and Africa.While numerous real estate entities operate within the country, Fab Luxury Court stands out for its exceptional honesty and integrity, delivering on the promises showcased on its social media page to distinguished customers globally.

As of now, no investors, whether domestic or international, have expressed regret over investing in or partnering with Fab Luxury Court. The company’s commitment to accessibility, accountability, and transparent financial reviews sets it apart from its contemporaries, rendering it a prized asset among its extensive clientele worldwide. Thousands of customers continue to patronize Fab Luxury Court due to its impeccable integrity and visionary approach.

 

*Why is Fab Luxury Court a worthwhile investment that warrants prompt consideration rather than hesitation?*

Fab Luxury Court’s security measures are exemplary and deserving of commendation, providing investors with capital protection through a robust structured framework, transparent reporting, and comprehensive legal documentation, thereby guaranteeing outstanding and secure returns.

Fab Luxury Court has further cemented its position as a leading developer and real estate powerhouse in Nigeria and Africa, currently managing several high-end estates in Maryland, Ikeja, Lagos and its surrounding areas.Fab Luxury Court demonstrates its unwavering commitment to excellence in Nigeria’s real estate sector through its best-selling estates in Ikeja.

Undoubtedly, partnering with and patronizing Fab Luxury Court will significantly contribute to securing your future; as you plan to associate with them in 2027, we encourage you to maintain a positive outlook and unwavering confidence in your future wealth.

 

FAB Luxury Court Sets A Rare Benchmark For Excellence In Africa
~By Oluwaseun Fabiyi

 

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Education

Edukate Africa holds summit to tackle funding barrier in education

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Edukate Africa holds summit to tackle funding barrier in education

By Ifeoma Ikem

Edukate Africa, an edu-fintech platform is set to host the Disrupt Education Summit Africa (Disrupt ED) aimed at tackling funding barriers, skills gaps and curriculum mismatch in Nigeria’s education system.

The Director of Edukate Africa, Francis Omorojie who disclosed this to newsmen explained that the initiative was driven by the high rate of school dropouts linked largely to financial constraints, particularly at the higher institution

Omorojie said the summit scheduled for January 29 at the University of Lagos will bring together government officials, universities, financial institutions, private sector players and philanthropies to rethink education financing and prepare young Nigerians for the realities of today’s digital workforce.

He said that more than 50 percent of students who drop out of higher institutions do so because they cannot afford tuition and related costs, a situation he described as a major contributor to unemployment, brain drain and irregular migration.

“Africa’s youthful population could either become an economic advantage or a liability, depending on how well education and talent development are managed.

“Education is a fundamental need, but financial exclusion has continued to shut out many promising young people. When students drop out, it feeds unemployment and social instability.

“Our mission is to build innovative and sustainable financial models that keep young Africans in school and help them become productive,” he said.

He noted that Edukate Africa is deploying blended financing solutions that include tuition guarantees, technology driven scholarship platforms, gig and remote work opportunities for students, and partnerships with universities and philanthropies to establish endowment and alumni funds.

He said that the platform pays tuition directly to institutions after verifying students’ admission and academic records, ensuring transparency and accountability for donors.

“The summit would focus on aligning education with the fast changing nature of work, driven by digital transformation, artificial intelligence and emerging technologies as any university curricula are lagging behind workplace realities, leaving graduates ill prepared for employment.

“There is a clear disconnect between what students are taught and what employers need. This summit will create a roundtable where government, academia and the private sector can agree on the skills required for today’s economy and how to integrate them into learning.

“It will also examine education financing models, including how banks and financial institutions can design student friendly funding products, and how existing initiatives such as the Nigeria Education Loan Fund can be strengthened and scaled.’’

Omorojie added that Edukate Africa would use the summit to launch the CommUniversity Endowment Fund, a community led investment fund designed to generate sustainable returns that will be used to sponsor vulnerable students and support young entrepreneurs.

Unlike traditional grant models, he said the fund would invest in revenue generating businesses, with dividends channeled into education support and seed funding for student led startups.

He said the initiative would also promote innovation through activities such as Pitch My Dissertation, Africathon and inter university debates, encouraging students to turn academic research into commercial solutions and job creating ventures.

According to him, over 1,000 students and recent graduates are expected at the summit, with a partners’ pavilion providing employers and organisations direct access to top talent.

He added that Edukate Africa has already supported students in Nigeria, the United Kingdom and Uganda to complete their education, in some cases with relatively small amounts that made the difference between graduation and dropping out.

He said that the ultimate goal is to move beyond access to education and ensure that young people graduate with relevant skills, funding support and pathways into employment or entrepreneurship, thereby contributing meaningfully to Nigeria’s economic development.

Also speaking, Tosin Adebisi, Co-Founder of Edukate Africa said the Disrupt ED Summit was designed as a disruptive and transformative convergence that would move beyond familiar conversations to practical collaboration.

Adebisi said the summit was built around a new framework called Communiversity, which seeks to integrate universities, policymakers, industry, the third sector and students into a single ecosystem.

“Rather than everyone working in silos, Communiversity brings together policymakers, universities, industry and civil society, with students at the centre, to address access to education, the future of work and Africa’s competitiveness.

“Communiversity model would leverage alumni networks, high net worth individuals and diaspora support to unlock sustainable funding for universities.

“The summit is being organised in partnership with the University of Lagos and the University of Birmingham, with support from the Federal Ministry of Education.’’

The dignitaries that would grace the occasion include, Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa; the Provost and Vice Principal of the University of Birmingham, Professor Nick, the Chief Operating Officer of Semicolon Africa, Ms Ashley Immanuel; and the Chief Executive Officer of Sterling One Foundation, Mrs Olapeju Ibikwe

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FCAIB is set to launch degree programmes in partnership with FUNAAB

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FCAIB is set to launch degree programmes in partnership with FUNAAB

 

IBADAN, OYO STATE, NIGERIA – In a groundbreaking move, the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB) has given the green light for the introduction of two innovative degree programmes at the Federal College of Agriculture, Ibadan (FCAIB), set to kick off in the 2025/2026 academic session.

According to an official release e-signed and made available to the media by Mrs. Wilson Oyekemi, Head of the Public Relations Unit of the institution, the newly approved programmes are B.Sc. (Home Science and Management) and B.Agric. (Agricultural Science).

As stated, the next academic session will witness the official commencement of both degree programmes, which constitutes a major breakthrough in the College’s academic development.

Established in 1921, the Federal College of Agriculture, Ibadan (FCAIB), originally known as the School of Agriculture, proudly stands as Nigeria’s and West Africa’s first agricultural institution, with a long and storied history.

The College’s roots trace further back to 1899, when Moor Plantation, Ibadan was established as a model farm to promote rubber cultivation and general agricultural improvement.

By 1905, the station evolved into an experimental research centre, focusing primarily on cotton production and other key agricultural studies.

The formal establishment of the School of Agriculture in 1921 marked the beginning of structured agricultural education in Nigeria.

Following the regionalization of education in 1954, the school relocated to its present site – where it has since grown into a formidable centre of agricultural learning and innovation.

Over the past century, the Federal College of Agriculture, Ibadan, has consistently upheld its mission of contributing to Nigeria’s agricultural development through qualitative education, skills acquisition, and the production of middle-level manpower for the agricultural sector.

The institution remains committed to empowering students with practical, hands-on skills and modern knowledge tailored to meet the evolving needs of agribusiness and food production in the 21st century.

Becoming Nigeria’s Premier Agricultural Institution, FCAIB envisions becoming the foremost agricultural education institution in Nigeria’s tertiary education system – a vision strengthened by its continued academic expansion and infastructural growth.

With over 100 years of continuous service, the Federal College of Agriculture, Ibadan has built a strong reputation as a leader in agricultural education, training, and research across the subregion.

The College currently offers a wide range of National Diploma (ND) and Higher National Diploma (HND) programmes across several disciplines, including:

National Diploma Programmes:

– Agricultural and Bio-Environmental Engineering Technology

– Agricultural Technology

– Home and Rural Economics

– Horticultural Technology

– Cooperative Economics and Management

– Science Laboratory Technology (SLT)

– Computer Science

– Food Technology

– Office Management Technology

– Library and information Science

– Multimedia Technology

– Organic Agricultural Technology

Higher National Diploma Programmes:

– Agricultural and Bio-Environmental Engineering Technology (Farm Power/Post-Harvest Technology/Soil & Water options)

– Agricultural Extension and Management

– Animal Production Technology

– Crop Production Technology

– Horticultural Technology

– Agribusiness Management

– Pest Management Technology

– Science Laboratory Technology (Microbiology Option)

These programmes are designed to blend theory with practical field experience, ensuring graduates are job-ready and self-reliant in the agricultural sector.

Beyond academic instruction, FCAIB maintains a strong emphasis on research and development, particularly in areas that directly impact food production and sustainable agricultural practices.

Recent infrastructural developments at the institution included the establishment of a Meteorological Centre, a Garri Processing Plant and an Oil Palm Processing Unit, all aimed at enhancing research, student training, and community impact.

The 9th and current Provost who doubled as the 28th Head of the 105 year-old Federal College of Agriculture, Ibadan, Prof. Jonathan Jeremiah Atungwu, a distinguished Nigerian academic Professor of Plant Nematology and an expert in Organic Agriculture and Biopesticides development with

research focus on non-chemical crop protection options, remained a focused and visionary leader.

He is Certified locally and internationally with enviable credentials, some of which include but not limited to:

– Over 100 publications in reputable outlets

– Expertise in Organic Agriculture and Biopesticides development.

– A team player with demonstrated leadership skills and experience in various capacities: Past Dean (COLPLANT) in FUNAAB and LASU, President of several professional societies.

– Membership and leadership in international and local organizations, such as ISOFAR, ISPP, NSPP, NISOP, ADAN and many more.

Prof. Atungwu is a renowned mentor for the upcoming agricultural scientists, teachers, agropreneurs, and youths.

He is happily married, and blessed with pleasant, hardworking, and disciplined children.

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