Osun Govt Rewards Top WAEC Students, Gives N1 Million to Best Performer as Adeleke Warns Against Vote Buying

The administration of Governor Ademola Adeleke has put the spotlight on academic excellence as Akahi News can confirm that outstanding performers in the 2025 West African Examination Council (WAEC) were rewarded at a ceremony held in Osogbo. The event, which took place at the Olagunsoye Oyinlola Hall of Osun State University, was organised in partnership with Electronic Collections Group (ECG) under the maiden edition of the Imole SSCE Scholarship Award.

Akahi News learnt that a total of 31 students drawn from across the 30 local government areas of the state were recognised for their academic excellence. Each of the top students from each local government received N100,000, while the overall best student in the state was awarded a scholarship prize of N1 million. Teachers who handled the students in the nine WAEC subjects were also rewarded with N50,000 each, and the schools that produced the awardees received educational materials.

“To our awardees, you are that light. But your light must shine beyond this stage, into your future,” the governor said while addressing beneficiaries at the scholarship presentation ceremony.

Adeleke: Education Agenda Working Despite Challenges

Governor Adeleke said the initiative was part of efforts to raise a generation driven by knowledge and excellence, adding that his administration remains committed to honouring achievements from the grassroots to the highest level. He commended the Ministry of Education, teachers, and school administrators for their roles in shaping the students and building their character.

The Coordinator of ECG, Akinmade Akintoye, provided context for the state’s educational turnaround. According to him, before Governor Adeleke came to power, Osun was not doing well in education. But in the first year of his administration, Osun ranked 7th in Nigeria.

“The education policy of the governor is working despite the challenges,” Akintoye said.

Akahi News gathered that the list of beneficiaries was sourced directly from WAEC headquarters, ensuring transparency and accuracy. Akintoye noted that the scholarship programme would be sustained annually to motivate students, teachers, and schools – a commitment that, if kept, could transform educational outcomes in the state over time.

‘I Didn’t Eat or Sleep’ – Overall Best Student Shares Emotional Story

The overall best student in the state, Ajani Oluwagbotemi Isaac of Ifedore Community Grammar School in Atakumosa East Local Government Area, moved many at the ceremony with his personal story. He described the recognition as both a surprise and a relief.

“My mum has been the only one taking care of me since my father is not involved in my welfare and education. It wasn’t easy preparing for the exams; there were times I didn’t eat or sleep. It has finally paid off,” he said.

His words capture the reality of many Nigerian students who overcome hunger, fatigue, and family challenges to excel academically. The N1 million scholarship prize will go a long way in supporting his further education. But beyond the money, the recognition itself is a morale booster – proof that hard work, even in the face of adversity, can be rewarded.

Ajani appreciated the state government for the support and called for continuity of the initiative, while encouraging other students to remain diligent. “Hard work pays. Read very well and it will pay off,” he added.

Political Warning: Adeleke Takes Aim at Vote Buying Ahead of August 15 Election

In a sharp turn from education to politics, Governor Adeleke used the platform to caution residents against vote buying ahead of the August 15 governorship election in the state. His warning was pointed and dramatic.

“My people of Osun State, Osun is at an unusual time ahead of the August 15 election. Those who hijacked and diverted over N300 billion Osun local government funds are desperate,” he said.

The governor charged Osun people to reject what he called “Greek gifts” – a biblical reference to gifts offered with ulterior motives – and to shun proceeds of crime. He urged voters to use their votes to sustain continuity.

Akahi News gathered that Adeleke framed the upcoming election as a sacred duty for voters and residents to reject illegality, political corruption, and unconstitutional pressure to subvert democracy. “Our votes must further elongate delivery of democratic dividends as witnessed by our people from 2022 to date,” he said.

The reference to “over N300 billion Osun local government funds” is a direct attack on his political opponents and a reminder of the legal battles that have marked his tenure. Whether the allegation holds weight or not, the governor is clearly preparing for a fierce electoral battle.

What Does This Mean for Osun Students and Voters?

For students in Osun State, the Imole SSCE Scholarship Award is a powerful incentive. Knowing that excellence in WAEC can lead to cash rewards, scholarships, and recognition will motivate many to take their studies more seriously. The inclusion of teacher rewards is also strategic – educators who feel appreciated are more likely to go the extra mile for their students.

Akahi News believes that if this programme is sustained annually, Osun could see a steady improvement in WAEC results year after year. The ranking of 7th in Nigeria in Adeleke’s first year is impressive. With continued investment and recognition, the state could aim for the top spot.

For voters, the governor’s warning against vote buying is timely. August 15 is approaching, and the desperation of political opponents – real or perceived – will likely manifest in cash handouts and gifts. Adeleke is asking voters to look beyond the short-term lure of money and consider the long-term benefits of continuity. Whether they will listen is another matter entirely.

A Philosophical Reflection on Education, Elections, and Excellence

There is a saying: “The best way to predict the future is to create it.” Governor Adeleke is trying to create a future where Osun students excel academically and where voters reject electoral corruption. Both goals are laudable. Both are difficult.

The students who received N100,000 and N1 million prizes will remember this day for the rest of their lives. They will tell their children about the governor who rewarded hard work. That memory can inspire generations. The teachers who received N50,000 each will feel seen. And the schools that got educational materials will be better equipped to serve their communities.

Akahi News calls on other state governments to emulate Osun’s investment in rewarding academic excellence. A N1 million scholarship to a brilliant but poor student can change that young person’s entire trajectory. It is money well spent.

As for the August 15 election, the governor has thrown down the gauntlet. Now the people of Osun must decide – not just with their emotions but with their consciences. Will they sell their votes for a few thousand naira, or will they protect the democratic dividends they have enjoyed since 2022? The answer will shape the state’s future for years to come.

Ajani Oluwagbotemi Isaac studied until he could not eat or sleep. That is excellence. Osun voters must now study the candidates, resist manipulation, and vote with the same diligence. That is democracy.

📌 Key Summary Box – What You Must Know

• ✔ Osun State Government rewarded 31 top WAEC students across all local government areas, with each receiving N100,000 and the overall best student getting a N1 million scholarship.
• ✔ Teachers of the nine WAEC subjects received N50,000 each, and schools were given educational materials.
• ✔ Governor Adeleke said the initiative is part of efforts to raise a knowledge-driven generation and honour excellence from the grassroots.
• ✔ Overall best student, Ajani Oluwagbotemi Isaac, shared an emotional story of struggling without a father’s support, sometimes not eating or sleeping while preparing for exams.
• ✔ Adeleke also warned against vote buying ahead of the August 15 governorship election, urging voters to reject “Greek gifts” and sustain continuity.
• ✔ For Osun students: The Imole Scholarship Award provides a strong incentive for academic excellence. For voters: The governor’s warning against vote buying sets the stage for a crucial electoral battle.