Unique Open University Awards ₦50 Million Scholarships to Student-Athletes at AKETI Bowl 2 Finals

The Unique Open University (UOU), through the philanthropic initiative of the Prof. Chris Imumolen Foundation, has awarded scholarships worth approximately ₦50 million to exceptional student-athletes during the finals of the National Secondary School American Football League, popularly known as AKETI Bowl 2.

Akahi News gathered that the scholarship presentation, which took place on March 11, 2026, in Lagos, brought together education stakeholders, government officials, and sports administrators to celebrate a combination of academic excellence and athletic achievement.

Partnership to Promote Student-First Development

The event was organised in collaboration with the Nigeria American Football Association (NAFA) and the Lagos State Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education (MBSE). The initiative focused on rewarding top-performing student-athletes in flag football while reinforcing a “student-first” philosophy that integrates sporting discipline with academic advancement.

Key dignitaries present included the Honourable Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Jamiu Tolani Ali-Balogun; the Permanent Secretary, Abisola Dokunmu-Adegbite; Tutor General/Permanent Secretary, Education District V, Hassan Dauda Abiodun; Tutor General/Permanent Secretary, Education District VI, Mojisola Christiana Yusuff; and the Director of Co-curricular Services Division, Adebesin Oluyemisi A.

Representing Prof. Chris Imumolen, Founder and President of Unique Open University, was Mr. Azuka, while Dr. Clement, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor of the institution, also attended the ceremony.

Empowering Young Africans Through Education

At the heart of the scholarship initiative is the philanthropy of Prof. Chris Imumolen, a globally recognised educator and recipient of the Forbes Best of Africa Award. Through his “All for All” philosophy and the work of the UNIC Foundation, he has facilitated educational access for thousands of young Africans, empowering over 30,000 professionals across the continent.

During the event, university representatives reiterated that the scholarship programme demonstrates UOU’s commitment to removing financial barriers that can prevent talented students from realising their academic potential.

The university, accredited by the National Universities Commission (NUC), offers a technology-driven learning system that provides dual-qualification degrees and flexible academic programmes, preparing students for global career opportunities.

Champions of AKETI Bowl 2

At the finals, Army Cantonment Girls School emerged champions in the female category, while Ikeja Grammar School secured the male category title. In addition to the scholarships awarded by UOU, NAFA provided cash prizes to the winning teams, ensuring the student-athletes receive both financial support and academic opportunities as they continue to pursue excellence in sports and education.

Akahi News gathered that initiatives like the UOU scholarship programme are helping to reshape the landscape of student sports in Nigeria by linking athletic talent with educational advancement.

By Joseph Iyaji | Akahi News

Joseph Iyaji is a journalist, educator, and founder of Akahi G. International, Akahi Tutors, and Akahi News. Read more about him here: https://akahinews.org/Joseph/

Akahi News www.akahinews.org

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