An entrepreneur based in Ikorodu, Prince Segun Shonubi, has called on privileged Nigerians to complement government efforts in youth empowerment, particularly in advancing access to education.
Shonubi made the appeal while presenting free application forms for the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) examination to over 300 indigent students across Ikorodu and its environs.
According to a statement issued on Monday, the initiative—fully funded by the entrepreneur—was designed to ease the financial burden on families struggling to register their children for the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME).
The presentation ceremony brought together beneficiaries, parents, community leaders, youth representatives and other stakeholders, many of whom described the intervention as timely and impactful. The atmosphere was marked by gratitude and renewed optimism, as students expressed excitement at the opportunity to pursue higher education without financial constraints.
Speaking on the motivation behind the gesture, Shonubi reiterated his belief in education as a catalyst for personal transformation and community development. He noted that the sponsorship was driven by compassion and a genuine desire to invest in the future of Ikorodu.
“Our young people carry the future of this community in their hands. When financial constraints threaten to limit their dreams, we must step in,” he said. “This is not just about paying for forms; it is about restoring confidence and keeping hope alive. In many homes, the JAMB registration fee represents a significant hurdle that can delay or completely halt a young person’s academic journey. With interventions like this, that barrier is removed.”
Parents of the beneficiaries described the initiative as a major relief amid prevailing economic challenges, noting that many had been uncertain about how to raise the registration fees before the intervention.
Community leaders commended Shonubi for demonstrating responsible citizenship and grassroots impact, stressing that sponsoring over 300 students reflects not only generosity but also a strategic investment in human capital development.
Education advocates also observed that such interventions have far-reaching implications, as each supported student represents a potential professional, entrepreneur, innovator or leader who could contribute meaningfully to society.
As the beneficiaries prepare to sit for their examinations, there is widespread hope that the opportunity will translate into academic success and long-term achievements that will continue to uplift the Ikorodu community.