Awude Bags Leadership Excellence Award as Oyemekun Grammar School Marks 73rd Anniversary
Akure, Ondo State — The 73rd founding anniversary of Oyemekun Grammar School, Akure, came to a colourful close with an inter-house sports competition, during which renowned public servant and youth development advocate, Mr. Adedayo Awude, was honoured with a Leadership Excellence Award.
According to the organisers of the prestigious anniversary celebration, the award was presented to Awude in recognition of his career-long achievements, outstanding leadership qualities, and immense contributions to societal development, particularly in the areas of youth empowerment, education, and public service.
Awude, an alumnus of Alakure Grammar School, has over the years occupied several strategic public and political positions. He has served as Commissioner in the Ondo State Government, Chief of Protocol to the Ondo State Government, Chairman of the Ondo State Scholarship Board, and Information, Protocol and Public Relations Officer at Adekunle Ajasin
University. He is also a Protocol and Public Relations Consultant, youth development strategist, and author.
The organisers further highlighted Awude’s deep commitment to educational development, noting that he personally rebuilt the collapsed school hall at Alakure Grammar School, a project widely regarded as a major intervention that restored dignity and functionality to his alma matter.
Speaking at the event, Awude, who is also the Director-General of the Sunshine Grassroots Network, was ably represented by the Secretary of the Network, Hon. Olu Egbodofo. In his goodwill message, Awude expressed profound appreciation to the Old Students’ Global Alumni Association of Oyemekun Grammar School for their sustained efforts in giving back to the school and supporting its growth.
He encouraged the students to place high priority on their education, while also balancing academic excellence with active participation in extra-curricular activities such as sports, describing them as vital tools for character building, discipline, and leadership development.
In a show of continued commitment to the school, Awude pledged to construct a modern lawn tennis court for the students, a gesture that was met with applause from the school community.
The anniversary celebration featured thrilling inter-house sports displays, cultural performances, and goodwill messages from distinguished alumni and stakeholders, reaffirming Oyemekun Grammar School’s legacy as a breeding ground for leaders and change-makers over the past 73 years.
By Babatunde KUYE
