By: Adebayo Balqees Folayemi
The JCI (Junior Chamber International) 38th Convention and 39th Investiture, alongside the 26th edition of the Fifteen Outstanding Persons’ Awards (FOPA), took place on the 3rd of January, 2026, at the University of Ibadan.
The event, themed “Navigating the Times: Transformational Leadership for Nation Building,” was hosted by the 38th JCI President, Taiwo Olanlesi Odusote. The occasion featured Honourable Saheed Akinade-Fijabi as Father of the Day and Mr Stephen Adedigba (ICON) as the theme speaker, highlighting the importance of transformational leadership for nation building.
This year’s awards featured ten competitive student categories, each with three outstanding nominees, recognising thirty exceptional individuals shaping the University of Ibadan community. Following a rigorous selection process, the winner in each category received the winner’s award and a certificate of nomination. The two other nominees were each presented with a certificate of nomination, honouring their selection as finalists. They included:
Selfless Contribution to a Worthy Cause
Deborah Oludimu received the award for winning and a certificate of recognition for outstanding commitment to community service and humanitarian efforts. Adebusin Olakuleyin and Merit Nwachkwu were recognised with certificates of recognition.
Most Outstanding in Academic Excellence
Mubarak Olasunkanmi received the award for winning and a certificate of recognition for consistent excellence and dedication to scholarship. Ojo Damilare and Thomas Adeoye were recognised with certificates of recognition.
Most Outstanding Person in Entertainment
Okunade Timileyin received the award for winning and a certificate of recognition for creativity and impact. Shittu Abbibulahi and Ayodele Eleazar were recognised with certificates of recognition.
Most Outstanding Person in Student Leadership
Victor Kolawole received the award for winning and a certificate of recognition for exemplary leadership and fostering unity, responsibility, and effective governance among students. Bello Ruqayyah and Babatimehin Peace were recognised with certificates of recognition.
Most Outstanding UI Personality
Oladapo Salvador received the award for winning and a certificate of recognition for positive influence and representation of the University of Ibadan community. Olabisi Owadayo and Deboye Temidayo were recognised with certificates of recognition.
Most Outstanding Person in Hall Management
Adeife Adenekan received the award for winning and a certificate of recognition for dedication and efficiency in hall administration. Anifowose Nafisat (Faculty of Agriculture, Agricultural Extension and Rural Development; Queen’s Hall Chairperson) and Akınlawon Goodluck were recognised with certificates of recognition.
Most Outstanding Person in Journalism
Sonaike Peter received the award for winning and a certificate of recognition for professionalism, consistency, and commitment to responsible storytelling. Ademola Ifeoluwa and Oludare Olufunmilola were recognised with certificates of recognition.
Most Outstanding Person in Sports
Ayobami Ojeniyi received the award for winning and a certificate of recognition for dedication and achievements in sports. Akinyemi Gloria Eniola and Ojo Abimbola Blessing were recognised with certificates of recognition.
Most Outstanding Person in Faculty Management
Olayera Daniel Olajide received the award for winning and a certificate of recognition for contributions to faculty management. Bernard Derrick and Abiola Samuel were recognised with certificates of recognition.
Most Outstanding Person in Entrepreneurship
Ogundeyi Grace received the award for winning and a certificate of recognition for entrepreneurial achievements. Okoh Daniel (Faculty of Agriculture, Agricultural Economics) and Odette Oluwasubomi were recognised with certificates of recognition.
This edition of FOPA also recognised distinguished alumni whose contributions have significantly impacted their fields. Among the winners were Ayo Adeagbo for Corporate Governance, Olajumoke Adelabu for Professional Excellence, Aniagboso Emeka for Public Administration, and Victor Ehindero for Media Excellence. Other alumni were also recognised for their outstanding contributions across various fields, highlighting the broad impact of former students.
At the conclusion of the awards, the chain of office was officially passed from the 38th JCI President, Taiwo Olanlesi Odusote, to the 39th President-Elect, Lawal Quayyum, marking the beginning of a new chapter in the leadership of the association.
As FOPA continues to recognise excellence, the awardees, both students and alumni stand as inspirations to their peers, demonstrating that dedication, hard work, and service can leave a meaningful and lasting impact on their community.
