Asake snubs UK education, chooses OAU – Mum opens up

The mother of Nigerian music star, Ahmed Ololade, popularly known as Asake, has revealed that the singer once turned down an opportunity to study in the United Kingdom despite her efforts to sponsor his education abroad.

She made this known during an appearance on Korty EO’s YouTube podcast, where she shared insights into Asake’s early life and academic journey.

According to her, she had already made financial preparations and secured an international passport for her son with the intention of sending him to the UK for his studies. However, she was taken aback when Asake insisted on pursuing his education in Nigeria instead.

She disclosed that the singer opted to attend Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) in Ile-Ife, Osun State, where he later studied Performing Arts.

A family acquaintance and Yoruba actor, Muyideen Oladapo, popularly known as Lala, reportedly played a key role in convincing her to support Asake’s decision and also assisted in facilitating his admission into the institution.

The singer’s mother admitted she initially had reservations due to his strong-willed nature but eventually agreed after being reassured.

“Because he was stubborn, I decided to gather money here and there and told him to go to the UK. I had gotten his international passport,” she said.

“So I was in my shop one day when he stormed in saying, ‘Iya Ahmed, they asked me to go to school, I want to go to school’.”

She added that his choice to study Performing Arts at OAU played a significant role in shaping his creative journey and eventual rise in the music industry.

During the same podcast, Asake also explained the meaning behind his nickname “Giran,” which translates to “stubborn” in Yoruba—a trait his mother’s story appears to confirm.

I got an international passport and wanted Asake to study in the UK, But he insisted he wanted to go to school in OAU- Asake’s Mum pic.twitter.com/Cpo1v0EDN1

— Oyindamola🙄 (@dammiedammie35) March 18, 2026