Kabiyesi Oba Adedokun Abolarin, the Orangun of Oke-Ila, left, and Olamiti Lawrence Mofoluwaso, standing by the bust of Obafemi Awolowo

Olamiti Lawrence Mofoluwaso

In the heart of Osun State, Nigeria, lies a remarkable testament to royal philanthropy and educational excellence. On February 7, 2025, what began as a condolence visit to Kabiyesi Oba Adedokun Abolarin, the Orangun of Oke-Ila, following the recent celebration of life for his departed mother, transformed into an inspiring encounter with a visionary educational project.

The Abolarin College stands as a monument to possibilities, where 135 underprivileged students from across Nigeria receive completely free, quality education through the generous sponsorship of Oba Abolarin. This isn’t just another private school; it’s a carefully crafted sanctuary of learning where young minds are nurtured to become future leaders.

Upon arrival in Oke-Ila, rather than proceeding to the palace, Kabiyesi’s presence at the college grounds spoke volumes about his priorities. Even in a period of personal loss, his commitment to education remained unwavering. The school’s environment radiates excellence, purpose, and hope. Each classroom buzzes with the energy of young minds engaging with knowledge, unrestricted by financial barriers that might have otherwise denied them this opportunity.

The success of Abolarin College is already evident in its impressive track record. Seventy-five of its graduates are currently pursuing higher education in various universities across Nigeria, a testament to the institution’s academic rigor and effectiveness. These students, once facing limited prospects due to economic circumstances, are now on paths to becoming professionals and leaders in their chosen fields.

At the entrance of the main classroom building stands a powerful symbol of inspiration – a sculpture of Chief Obafemi Awolowo, one of Nigeria’s most revered leaders and a passionate advocate for education. This strategic placement serves as a daily reminder of Chief Awolowo’s enduring legacy and his belief in education as a tool for societal transformation. Students are encouraged to draw inspiration from Awolowo’s life, achievements, and unwavering commitment to excellence.

The college’s approach to education goes beyond traditional academics. It focuses on developing well-rounded individuals who understand their potential role in building a better Nigeria. The curriculum combines rigorous academic standards with character development, leadership training, and cultural awareness. Students are taught to dream big while remaining grounded in values of hard work, integrity, and service to community.

Oba Abolarin’s initiative represents more than just free education; it’s a bold statement about the transformative power of investing in young minds. By providing quality education to students who might otherwise have been left behind, the college is actively working to bridge the educational gap that often perpetuates social inequality in Nigeria.

The phrase “seeing is believing” truly captures the essence of Abolarin College. Visitors witness first-hand how royal philanthropy, combined with educational excellence, can create pathways for underprivileged students to achieve their full potential. This institution stands as a model for what’s possible when traditional leadership embraces modern educational solutions to address societal challenges.

As Nigeria looks toward its future, initiatives like Abolarin College demonstrate how traditional institutions can play a vital role in national development through education. It’s a powerful reminder that investing in education, particularly for the underprivileged, is one of the most effective ways to build a stronger, more equitable society.