As part of activities marking the 10th coronation anniversary of the Arole Oodua and Ooni of Ife, His Imperial Majesty Ooni Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, outstanding students in Ile-Ife were on Wednesday rewarded with cash prizes and educational materials after excelling in the maiden edition of the Ooni Ogunwusi Coronation Anniversary Quiz and Debate Competitions.
The initiative, sponsored by the Victor Badejo Foundation — a nongovernmental organization founded by philanthropist and protégé of the Ooni, Mr. Victor Badejo — featured multiple rounds of preliminaries involving students from across primary and secondary schools in Ile-Ife. It was conceived to encourage academic excellence and strengthen the culture of quality education within the community.
In his remarks, Ooni Ogunwusi commended Victor Badejo for what he described as a rare act of generosity and commitment to community development. He praised the young philanthropist for choosing to invest his personal resources in supporting students, especially those from low-income backgrounds.
“What we have witnessed today is a reminder that government must pay urgent and deliberate attention to the state of public education,” the Ooni said. “I am particularly impressed that a significant number of the finalists came from public schools. Despite the obvious challenges and shortage of amenities, these children continue to excel remarkably. Imagine what the outcome would be if all our schools were properly equipped. I thank their teachers for the great work they are doing, and today, their efforts have been rewarded.”
Speaking on behalf of the Osun State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Honourable Oluwole Jimi-Bada, SAN, Senior Legal Adviser Barr. Debo Adedini described the competition as a key indicator of educational growth. He emphasised the need for collaborative responsibility among all stakeholders to support government efforts toward improving the standard of education.
“Today’s event teaches students in informal but impactful ways, helping them view the world from broader perspectives,” he noted. “Listening to these brilliant children — their confidence, precision, and courage — leaves no doubt that the future holds great promise for them as leaders of this nation.”
In his goodwill message, Victor Badejo expressed that the programme was his personal way of honouring the Ooni of Ife, whom he described as a father figure, mentor, and unmatched leader.
“There is no gift more meaningful to Kabiyesi than giving back to society — the same society that shaped my journey with his support,” he said. “For 10 years, Baba Oonirisa has nurtured many of us from very little to becoming productive members of society. Through this initiative, I call on well-meaning Nigerians, especially at the grassroots, to contribute to nation-building through education. When we create opportunities for students to showcase their talents, we are investing in the future — and that is the true pathway to prosperity.”
Mrs. Opeyemi Badejo, wife of the founder of the Victor Badejo Foundation, also addressed the participants, commending their brilliant performance and encouraging them to remain focused on developing their talents. She extended appreciation to the teachers whose dedication, she said, reflects in the students’ accomplishments.
The keenly contested quiz competition was won by Saint John’s Primary School, Oke Atan, while the debate competition — on the topic “Traditional Rulers are More Responsible than Political Leaders” — was clinched by Oluorogbo Grammar School, Road 7, Ile-Ife. Winners received cash gifts, school bags, books, and other educational materials in support of their academic pursuits.
Earlier in the day, a novelty football match organized by the Victor Badejo Foundation took place at the Oduduwa College football pitch, where Ife Youth Organization defeated Titans Future Builders 2–0. The match was also part of activities lined up to celebrate the Ooni’s 10th coronation anniversary.
