Dr. Oluwatoyin Madein, the immediate past Accountant General of the Federation, delivered a powerful message to Nigerian youth, cautioning against the dismissive notion that education is a scam. Speaking at an empowerment program organized by the Olowo Oloye Foundation, an initiative she founded in honor of her late father, Madein emphasized the transformative power of education, highlighting it as a catalyst for career fulfillment, economic liberation, and escape from the clutches of ignorance. She attributed her own remarkable ascent to the pinnacle of her profession as Accountant General to the dual forces of divine grace and the solid foundation provided by education. The event, held in Iperu Remo, Ogun State, was part of a larger homecoming reception organized by the Iperu Development Association to celebrate Madein’s distinguished service to the nation.
The empowerment program itself was a testament to Madein’s commitment to community upliftment. It featured a multifaceted approach to empowering local residents, encompassing free medical services for over 500 individuals, scholarships for 150 secondary school students, distribution of essential food palliatives, and provision of vital equipment such as grinding machines, deep freezers, and dryers, designed to stimulate economic activity and self-reliance. Madein underscored the importance of collaborative efforts between government and individuals, acknowledging the limitations of government resources and urging community members to actively participate in developmental initiatives. She emphasized that collective responsibility and individual contributions are crucial for the overall progress and well-being of communities.
Reflecting on her personal journey, Madein shared her formative years spent in Iperu Remo, detailing her educational path from Ansar-Ud-Deen primary school to Local Authority School in Ikenne, and finally to Christ Apostolic Grammar School in Iperu Remo. She recounted her academic success, obtaining her O’Level certificate in one sitting, which paved the way for her admission to Ogun State Polytechnic. Madein’s narrative served as a living example of how dedication to education can propel individuals from humble beginnings to positions of national significance. She directly addressed the misconception that education is a scam, vehemently refuting this claim and reiterating its vital role in achieving greatness and personal fulfillment.
Madein further emphasized the empowering nature of education, stating that even in pursuits like trading, education equips individuals with the necessary dignity, economic wisdom, and strategic thinking to excel. She encouraged students to transcend any limitations imposed by their local backgrounds, drawing inspiration from her own experience. Coming from similar circumstances, she demonstrated that diligent pursuit of academic goals can lead to remarkable achievements, regardless of one’s origins. This message of hope and perseverance resonated with the audience, inspiring them to view education as a pathway to a brighter future.
The Chairman of Iperu Development Association, Taiwo Oyebanjo, lauded Madein as a role model and a source of immense pride for the community. He acknowledged her exemplary service to the nation and her unwavering dedication to the socio-economic advancement of Iperu Remo. Oyebanjo’s words echoed the community’s deep appreciation for Madein’s contributions and her commitment to giving back to her roots. He called upon other community members and indigenes to emulate Madein’s philanthropic spirit and her genuine concern for the well-being of others. This public acknowledgment further solidified Madein’s position as an inspirational figure and a driving force for positive change.
The event served as a powerful platform to advocate for the importance of education and community development. Madein’s personal story, coupled with the tangible impact of the empowerment program, sent a resounding message that education is indeed a pathway to progress, both for individuals and communities. Her call to action, urging collective responsibility and individual contributions, resonated deeply with the audience, inspiring a renewed commitment to upliftment and progress. The celebration of Madein’s achievements also served as a testament to the transformative power of education and its potential to empower individuals to reach their full potential and contribute meaningfully to society.
