How N500 scholarship from my village changed my life — Taiwo Oyedele

Taiwo Oyedele, chairman of the presidential committee on fiscal policy and tax reforms, says a N500 scholarship from his village association was pivotal to his education and future.

Oyedele spoke on Monday in Akure during a public lecture organised to mark the 50th anniversary of Ondo State.

Describing himself as a native of Ikaram-Akoko, he traced his progress to the support he received from his community at a critical time in his life.

“I stand here today as a proud son of Ondo State from Ikaram-Akoko,” Oyedele said. “My journey, like that of many sons and daughters of this state, is a product of our core values and our strong sense of community.”

He recalled how the scholarship, received 35 years ago, enabled him to register for his final secondary school examination.

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

“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.”

Oyedele said the experience shaped his understanding of how small acts of support can have lasting impact.

“This anecdote underscores a powerful truth — our strength lies in our community and our willingness to lift each other up,” he added.

At the event, Oyedele announced a new scholarship initiative aimed at supporting students across 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 said.

He noted that the initiative is intended to encourage academic excellence and extend to others the kind of support he once received.