Wilson and Yinka Badejo Foundation awards 52 scholarships to talented Nigerian students, reaffirming its mission to support education and nation-building

Wilson and Yinka Badejo Foundation has once again demonstrated its unwavering commitment to educational equity by awarding scholarships to 52 academically gifted but financially disadvantaged students across Nigeria.

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The announcement came during a high-profile leadership symposium themed “Leadership Reimagined: Framework for Empowering the Next Generation of Nation Builders,” hosted at the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs, Victoria Island, Lagos.

Since its inception in 2007 by the late Rev. Dr. Wilson Badejo, the Wilson and Yinka Badejo Foundation has empowered over 500 students with scholarships, delivering hope to communities often left behind.

This year, the Foundation received 2,619 applications a testament to its growing impact. After a rigorous screening process, 2,022 applicants were shortlisted, and 52 top candidates were selected: 50 under the Legacy Scholarship, and 2 under the Nurturing Arts category.

“These young minds form the W\.Y. Scholars Class of 2025 and represent resilience, brilliance, and promise,” said Rev. Sam Aboyeji, General Overseer of the Foursquare Gospel Church.

Also at the event, leadership expert Fela Durotoye delivered a powerful message on transformational leadership, urging a shift from control-driven governance to value-based service.

“True leadership is rooted in vision, integrity, and a commitment to empowering others,” he said.

His critique of Nigeria’s “ruling party” culture resonated deeply, highlighting the need for inclusive governance and collective nation-building.

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Through education, advocacy, and bold thought leadership, the Wilson and Yinka Badejo Foundation continues to powerfully shape the future of Nigeria one scholar at a time.