First Lady Oluremi Tinubu gives ₦10m to 12-year-old artist in Ogun State

Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, has kept her promise of ₦10 million for 12-year-old artist, Master Morenikeji Ebunoluwa Joshua, from Ogun State. This happened less than a month after she was impressed by his talent.

The ₦10 million Education Development Trust Fund was given to Joshua through the Ogun State Government. This fund will help him with his education all the way to university.

Senator Tinubu made the pledge on August 18. She saw Joshua displaying a portrait he painted of her at the launch of the South-West Zonal National Food Bank Programme at the Cultural Centre, Kuto, Abeokuta.

Impressed by his talent, she called the young artist to the front and promised ₦10 million for his education.

Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, presented the cheque on behalf of the First Lady. He said fulfilling the pledge shows that "a promise made is a promise kept."

Abiodun mentioned that the donation was more than just money. He sees it as an investment in a talented young Nigerian. He praised Joshua for his talent and encouraged other young people to find and develop their own abilities.

"Young Joshua Morenikeji wants to be heard, he wants to be seen, he wants his talent to be appreciated, and that is a very strong virtue."

He added, "The truth is that if you are not out there promoting yourself, nobody is likely to promote you."

This support for Joshua continues a trend of government help. Abiodun remembered that he had helped Joshua three years ago after seeing one of his paintings at an exhibition in his office.

The governor said that after learning Joshua was still in primary school, he provided a scholarship for him to finish primary and secondary school.

"I immediately announced a scholarship in his favour to see him through primary to secondary school, and that has been done," he said.

With this new support from Senator Tinubu, Joshua’s education will now extend to university level.

Abiodun thanked the First Lady for her support, calling her a promise keeper and a strong ally of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s government.

He shared that an account was set up to ensure the ₦10 million fund is used for Joshua’s education.

"We extend our deepest appreciation for this gift of ₦10 million, whose account has been opened specifically for this purpose," the governor said.

He also congratulated Joshua’s parents, urging them to keep supporting their son. He told Joshua to stay focused and keep improving his talent.

Wahab Alawiye-King, the Senior Special Assistant to the First Lady on Strategy, gave the cheque to Governor Abiodun. She said Joshua’s story shows the need for education to recognize and nurture different talents.

She explained that education isn’t just about grades. It also includes intellectual growth, values, emotions, and practical skills.

Prof Abayomi Arigbabu, the Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, said this effort is part of a larger plan to support deserving young people. He revealed that 21 students from universities also received financial awards.

These students included 14 from Tai Solarin University of Education, six from Babcock University, and one from Mountain Top University.

For Joshua, this support means more than just a reward for one portrait. It opens the door for him to continue his education and grow his artistic talent.

After receiving the support, Joshua thanked Senator Tinubu for seeing and investing in his talent. He said this shows that young talents can be recognized and encouraged.

He urged other children to find their passions, work hard, and keep improving their skills.