FBOMF Honours Teachers, Supports Pupils In Osun Communities

By Tosin Olasunkanmi,Osogbo

The Funmilayo Bamidele Oke Memorial Foundation (FBOMF) has extended its humanitarian outreach with a school support and Noble Teachers’ Initiative programme, distributing essential items to pupils and female educators across Ayedaade, Irewole, and Isokan Local Government Areas in Osun State.

During the event, 50 school bags were presented to pupils from St. Richard Roman Catholic Mission (RCM) Primary School, Oloba in Gbongan; St. Matthew’s Primary School, Wakajaye; St. Stephen Anglican Church Primary School, Ogbaaga; and St. Francis Primary School, Ogbaaga – all within Ayedaade Local Government Area.

Additionally, over 200 female teachers from the three local governments received gifts of clothes and footwear, aimed at recognising their dedication and contributions to education.

In a goodwill message Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Honourable Taiwo Olugadelivered who was represented by the Foundation’s Secretary, Barrister Adenitan Akinola, FBOMF , described the programme as “deeply symbolic.” The foundation was established earlier this year in honour of her late mother, Mrs. Funmilayo Bamidele Oke, a committed teacher who served passionately until her death nearly 30 years ago.

“Teaching was not merely my mother’s profession; it was her lifelong calling and service to humanity, rooted in discipline, compassion, and faith in education’s transformative power,” Oluga stated. “Today, as we honour teachers, we celebrate her legacy and that of countless educators who embody the same spirit of sacrifice.

“Though the items presented may seem modest, the message is profound: your sacrifices are seen, your work is valued, and your dignity matters.

Professor Amos Popoola, Director of Quality Assurance at Osun State University and a friend of the foundation, addressed recipients, emphasising that the gifts underscore FBOMF’s commitment to education and the welfare of teachers. He advocated for ongoing celebrations of educators and sustained support for indigent pupils.

Community leader Hon. Femi Abiona, who donated additional school bags, encouraged the young beneficiaries to remain hopeful and pursue their dreams with determination.

Speaking on behalf of the FBOMF Board, Barrister Akinola highlighted the organisation’s non-political, humanitarian focus on supporting women, especially widows, the aged, and the girl child. Since its inception in July, the foundation has conducted a free medical outreach and distributed school bags to underserved pupils.

He described teachers as “destiny moulders” whose roles demand passion and emotional investment, noting that the clothes for teachers were generously donated by partners in the United States.

In separate goodwill messages, Chairperson of the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) in Ayedaade LGA, Mrs. Abiola Mojisade, and her Irewole counterpart, Mrs. Oluwabunmi Babalola, thanked the foundation and Hon. Oluga for their consistent support of educators.

Mrs. Oladipo R.A., a teacher from ADC Grammar School in Isokan LGA, Apomu, praised the gesture’s meaningful impact, describing Hon. Oluga as a “natural giver” whose humanitarian efforts long predate her political career. Female teachers in Isokan expressed profound gratitude for her ongoing backing.

As further support, Hon. Oluga, through the foundation, presented ₦50,000 cash grants each to the NUT branches in Ayedaade (Gbongan), Irewole (Ikire), and Isokan (Apomu)