Abayomi Michael: Abused 3-Year-Old Pupil in Lagos Awarded Full University Scholarship (photos)

In a heartwarming turn of events, Abayomi Michael, the three-year-old pupil of Christ-Mitots School in Ikorodu, Lagos State, who suffered abuse at the hands of his teacher, has been awarded a full scholarship up to university level.

The scholarship was generously offered by Gidi Real Estate Investment Ltd, following widespread public outrage over a viral video showing Abayomi being assaulted during a numeracy lesson. The footage captured the teacher, Stella Nwadigbo, repeatedly hitting the boy as he stood in front of her desk.

The incident, which led to Nwadigbo’s arrest and arraignment in court, drew attention to the plight of abused children and sparked demands for justice.

At a ceremony held on Thursday at Alausa, the Lagos State Ministry of Youth and Social Development formalized the scholarship agreement.

The Lagos State Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Mobolaji Ogunlende, lauded the generous gesture, noting the importance of collaborative efforts in addressing societal challenges.

“The state government cannot do it alone. We are always ready to partner with any individual or group that can assist us in alleviating the burden on our citizens. We appreciate Gidi Real Estate Investment Ltd. for this noble gesture and encourage others to follow suit,” Ogunlende said.

In addition to the scholarship, Gidi Real Estate Investment Ltd. provided a fully furnished two-bedroom apartment to Abayomi’s mother, Mrs. Nike Okunlaya, a widow, to support the family.

Co-founder of the firm, Ayorinde Ejioye, emphasized that the company was deeply moved to act, recognizing that such abuse could happen to any child.

“This is not just about Michael; it’s about sending a strong message that abuse of any kind will not be tolerated. Every child deserves a chance to grow and thrive in a safe and nurturing environment,” Ejioye said.

The Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Ministry of Youth and Social Development, Pharm. (Mrs.) Toyin Oke-Osanyintolu, expressed concern over the abuse and highlighted the state’s swift intervention.

“We were deeply disturbed by the physical abuse of Michael Abayomi. To ensure it was not ignored, we immediately took appropriate action to secure justice and provide the necessary medical care for the child. We are pleased today that the situation has turned into a positive outcome,” she said.

The incident and its resolution have drawn widespread praise for Gidi Real Estate Investment Ltd.’s commitment to social responsibility and the Lagos State Government’s proactive response.

The scholarship and housing support mark a significant turnaround for Abayomi and his family, offering hope and stability after a traumatic experience. It also serves as a reminder of the need to protect vulnerable children and hold abusers accountable.

The case has reignited conversations about child abuse and the importance of stricter enforcement of child protection laws in schools across the country.