Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has redeemed her ₦10 million education pledge to 12-year-old Ogun State artist Master Morenikeji Ebunoluwa Joshua, less than a month after being moved by his talent.
The funds, presented as an Education Development Trust Fund through the Ogun State Government, will support Joshua’s education up to the tertiary level.
Senator Tinubu made the spontaneous pledge on 18 August after noticing the young artist displaying a portrait he had painted of her at the launch of the South-West Zonal National Food Bank Programme at the Cultural Centre, Kuto, Abeokuta. Impressed by the quality of the work, she invited Joshua to the podium and immediately committed ₦10 million towards his future studies.
Ogun State Governor Prince Dapo Abiodun presented the cheque on behalf of the First Lady. He described the fulfilment of the pledge as clear evidence that “a promise made is a promise kept.”
Abiodun said the gesture went beyond the monetary value, calling it an investment in a young Nigerian whose gift had been recognised and encouraged. He praised Joshua’s artistic skill and determination, urging other young people to identify, nurture and actively promote their God-given talents.
“Young Joshua Morenikeji is someone who wants to be heard, he wants to be seen, he wants his talent to be appreciated, and that is a very strong virtue. The truth is that if you are not out there promoting yourself, nobody is likely to promote you,” the governor stated.
The latest support builds on earlier assistance from the Ogun State Government. Three years ago, Abiodun personally intervened after seeing one of Joshua’s paintings at an exhibition in his office. Discovering that the boy was still in primary school, the governor awarded him a scholarship covering primary and secondary education — a commitment that has already been fulfilled.
With Senator Tinubu’s intervention, Joshua’s educational support now extends through tertiary level. An account has been opened specifically to safeguard the ₦10 million for his educational needs.
Abiodun thanked the First Lady, describing her as a promise keeper and a strong supporter of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration. He also congratulated Joshua’s parents and encouraged the young artist to remain focused on developing his talent.
Hon. Wahab Alawiye-King, Senior Special Assistant to the First Lady on Strategy, who handed over the cheque, noted that Joshua’s story highlights the importance of an education system that recognises and nurtures diverse talents. She stressed that true education covers cognitive, affective and psychomotor domains — intellectual growth, values and emotions, as well as practical skills.
Ogun State Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Prof. Abayomi Arigbabu, added that the intervention forms part of wider efforts to support deserving young people. He revealed that 21 tertiary institution students had also received financial awards: 14 from Tai Solarin University of Education, six from Babcock University and one from Mountain Top University.
For Joshua, the support represents more than recognition of a single portrait. It opens a clear pathway for higher education while allowing him to continue honing the artistic gift that brought him national attention.
After receiving the support, Joshua expressed gratitude to Senator Tinubu for seeing and investing in his talent. He encouraged other children to discover their passions, pursue them diligently and keep improving their skills.