In a remarkable gesture of compassion and commitment to education, the Commissioner for Housing and Urban Development, Hon. Abanika Taiye, on Monday, November 10, 2025, brought relief and joy to several indigent students from Ajaokuta Local Government Area as he offset their tuition and accommodation fees under the Abanika Scholarship Programme.
The beneficiaries, drawn from various wards across Ajaokuta, are students of the Confluence University of Science and Technology (CUSTECH), Osara, Ekiti State University (affiliated to the Federal College of Education, Okene), and the Federal College of Education, Okene.
Each student received direct financial support to enable them settle their school fees for the new academic session.
Hon. Abanika explained that the gesture was part of his ongoing scholarship initiative, noting that he had previously paid the tuition and accommodation fees of the same students during their first year and was now doing so again for their second year to ensure their education continues uninterrupted.
Reflecting on his humble beginnings, the Commissioner recounted his journey from a struggling student to a teacher, and now a public servant under the leadership of Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo.
He stated that his own experience with financial hardship during his school days inspired him to establish the scholarship scheme to assist other young people determined to succeed through education.
Hon Abanika noted that he drew the inspiration to embark on the gesture from Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo and the member representing Ajaokuta Constituency at the National Assembly, Hon Sanni Egidi Abdulraheem.
“I know what it means to be stranded as a student because of school fees,” Hon. Abanika said. “This initiative is my modest way of giving back to my community and ensuring that no willing mind is denied education because of poverty. I also draw inspiration from the leadership and mentorship of our political leader in Ajaokuta Federal Constituency, Hon. Barr. Sanni Egidi, whose commitment to youth empowerment and education continues to motivate us to do more for our people. All glory goes to God for granting me this opportunity.”
In a show of solidarity, the Commissioner for Works, Engr. Muhammad Ahovi, joined the event and commended Hon. Abanika for his generosity and consistency describing it as a reflection of true leadership and compassion.
Engr. Ahovi lauded his colleague’s passion for education and community development, and announced a cash donation to all the beneficiaries to assist with their feeding and upkeep for the session.
“Anyone who gives back to society earns my respect,” Engr. Ahovi stated. “We thank Governor Ododo for giving us the platform to touch lives positively, and we will continue to use every opportunity to impact our people.”
Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, Ahmed Oyiza Grace, a student of Education Management at Ekiti State University, expressed deep appreciation to both Commissioners for their kindness and support.
“We are grateful to Hon. Abanika for his continuous support and to Engr. Ahovi for his generous gesture,” she said. “May God continue to bless and uplift you both for investing in our education and future.”
The event was marked by joy, prayers, and renewed hope, as the Abanika Scholarship Programme continues to change lives and reaffirm that education remains the strongest foundation for community growth and transformation.
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