Nothing could be a better reward for hard work than to be recognised by one’s community. This was what happened to veterinary doctor, Sodiq Olamide Olayinka, last week at Iragbiji, the headquarters of Boripe Local Government Area of Osun State for graduating as the overall best from the prestigious University of Ibadan during this year’s convocation of the institution last month.
The 23-year-old won eight out of 11 possible prizes, setting a record in his faculty. He won 31 prizes at the convocation. Sodiq’s performance was one he had maintained since primary school.
When the news of Sodiq’s academic achievement reached Iragbiji, the people of the community, led by their monarch, the Aragbiji of Iragbiji, Oba Abdul-Rasheed Ayotunde Olabomi, Odundun IV, organised a reception for him and his family.
Flanked by his father, Prince Abimbola Ishaq Olayinka, and mother, Alhaja Folashade Olayinka, he was received by hundreds of people of the town at the sprawling Oba Olabomi’s Pavillion.
The Aragbiji, who could not hide his joy, said Sodiq had done the community’s proud and would remain a source of inspiration to many youths of the town and beyond. Everyone at the reception took turn to take picture with Sodiq and his parents.
After the reception, the Aragbiji took Sodiq to meet the state Governor, Mr. Rauf Aregbesola, at the Government House in Osogbo, the state capital.
Congratulating the recipient, Aregbesola called on youths not to perceive excellence as mysterious but a result of determination and deep commitment.
He described Sodiq as a shining example and worthy role model for any serious minded student.
“You are a brand new academic giant and setting a record in the life of the existence of the University of Ibadan, eight distinctions is an indication that nothing is impossible for a determined personality. Dr Sodiq Olayinka’s rare feat is by all intent an inspiration to all students in Iragbiji his home town, state of Osun and Nigeria,” he said.
Chief of Staff to the Governor, Alhaji Gboyega Oyetola, who hails from Iragbiji, also had kind words for Sodiq.
“Your recognition and feat as the 2015 best graduating student of the University of Ibadan came at a time when some students have gone astray at a tender age, some disgracefully impregnated putting a stop to their academic pursuit. I congratulate you.”
In his remarks, the Aragbiji of Iragbiji Oba Abdul Rasheed Ayotunde Olabomi applauded the progressive steps of Governor Aregbesola in all sectors, assuring that posterity will place him on the positive side of history.
The honoree, who expressed appreciation to the governor for receiving him and for the honour, assured of his readiness to contribute his own quota to the development of the state of Osun.
He urged his colleagues that with determination, prayers and fear of God, the sky is the beginning for serious-minded people.
