Former Oyo State Commissioner for Education, Prof. Adeniyi Olowofela, has called on Nigerian youths to embrace hard work and reject money rituals and other social vices.
He emphasized that true success is achieved through diligence and determination, rather than through illegal activities.
While receiving an award for his outstanding public service from the Abadina College Old Students’ Association (ACOS) in Ibadan, Olowofela highlighted the importance of this message in today’s society, where the pressure to attain wealth can lead some individuals down dangerous paths.
The Federal Character Commissioner from Oyo State noted that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration is focused on creating a supportive environment for businesses and helping youths succeed.
He pointed out that President Tinubu is committed to promoting youth development and empowerment, recognizing that Nigeria’s future depends on its young population.
He said: “By encouraging youths to focus on hard work and education, we are building a brighter future for Nigeria, by embracing hard work and shunning money rituals, youths can build a better future for themselves and their communities.
Reflecting on his tenure as Oyo State Commissioner for Education, Olowofela recalled a mandate he implemented requiring secondary students to recite “Apalara” each day in schools.
This practice according to him was designed to instill a strong work ethic and encourage students to prioritize their education over shortcuts to wealth.
He said: “The current trend of ritual killings among youths stems from their desire for quick money. The reality is that there is no shortcut to success—those involved in these rituals are only squandering their time.”
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He further highlighted the example set by Africa’s richest man, Aliko Dangote, asserting, “How many people did he kill to attain his wealth?”
He expressed gratitude for receiving the award and acknowledged the positive impact of the School Governing Board (SGB) established during the administration of the late Governor Abiola Ajimobi, who appointed him to the position of Education Commissioner.
He however dedicated the award to late Governor Abiola Ajimobi, praising the strong rapport they developed during their time working together.
He commended governor Seyi Makinde, for honoring Ajimobi by naming the First Technical University in Ibadan after him, emphasizing importance of recognizing and preserving the legacy of past leaders.