Wilson and Yinka Badejo Foundation awards scholarships to 52 Nigerian students

In its ongoing commitment to advancing education and alleviating financial hardship for young Nigerians, the Wilson and Yinka Badejo Foundation (WYBF) has awarded scholarships to 52 students across the country.

The announcement was made during a leadership symposium themed “Leadership Reimagined: Framework for Empowering the Next Generation of Nation Builders,” held at the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs, Victoria Island, Lagos.

Founded in 2007 by the late Rev. Dr. Wilson Badejo, the WYBF has, since 2008, provided more than 500 scholarships to academically gifted but underprivileged students.

The foundation’s mission is centred on empowering marginalised communities through education, support services, and developmental programmes.

Speaking at the event, General Overseer of the Foursquare Gospel Church in Nigeria, Rev. Sam Aboyeji, revealed that the foundation received an overwhelming 2,619 scholarship applications this year-2,480 for the W.Y.B.F. Legacy Scholarship and 139 for the Nurturing Arts Scholarship.

Following a strict eligibility screening and rigorous selection process, 2,022 applicants were shortlisted, from which 52 exceptional students were ultimately selected-50 under the Legacy category and two in the Nurturing Arts category.

“This year’s cohort represents some of the brightest minds from financially disadvantaged backgrounds, selected to join the distinguished W.Y. Scholars Class of 2025,” Aboyeji said.

Also speaking at the event, leadership coach and former presidential aide on National Values and Social Justice, Fela Durotoye, delivered a powerful message on redefining leadership in Nigeria.

He distinguished between leaders and rulers, criticising many in political office for prioritising control over service.

“True leadership is rooted in vision, integrity, and a commitment to empowering others,” Durotoye said, adding that “Many of our challenges today stem from the absence of these values in governance.”

He further criticised the common political phrase “ruling party,” describing it as a relic of authoritarianism that undermines democratic principles.

“When we refer to parties as ‘ruling,’ we reinforce a hierarchy that weakens our democracy and marginalises other essential voices in governance,” he said.

Durotoye also challenged Nigerians to move from being just a country defined by borders and a government to becoming a true nation, united by shared values, trust, and a collective vision.

“Not every country is a nation,” he stressed. “Nationhood is built on unity, purpose, and a common identity. Without these, we are simply coexisting—not truly building a future together.”