Taiwo Oyedele: How N500 Village Scholarship Changed my Life

Taiwo Oyedele, chairman of the presidential committee on fiscal policy and tax reforms, says a N500 scholarship from his village association played a decisive role in his educational journey.

Oyedele spoke in Akure on Monday during a public lecture organised as part of activities marking the 50th anniversary of the creation of Ondo state.

The fiscal policy expert described himself as a proud son of Ondo state from Ikaram-Akoko, attributing his success to the collective spirit of his community.

“My own journey, like that of many sons and daughters of this great state, is a product of these core values and the deep-seated sense of community. I stand here today as a proud son of Ondo state from Ikaram-Akoko,” he said.

“I recall a moment that cemented my belief in our collective spirit — the N500 scholarship from my village association 35 years ago.

“That modest sum helped me register for my final secondary school examination. Without it, it is unlikely that I would be speaking to you today.

“This anecdote underscores a powerful truth — our strength lies in our community, our willingness to lift each other up, and our unwavering belief that greatness can emerge from anywhere, with just a little support and an unstoppable determination.”

Oyedele announced a scholarship of up to N500,000 for the best graduating final-year student in every public secondary school in the state.

“As a gesture of my gratitude, and hopefully to inspire others, I am announcing a scholarship of up to N500,000 to cover the final examinations of the best final-year student in every public secondary school graduating this Golden Jubilee year across the state,” he added.