The National Association of Ondo State Students (NAOSS) has honoured Otunba Valentine Olaleye with a recognition award of Ondo State Philanthropist of the Year
The award ceremony, which took place at his residence in Akure, was presented to him by the President of the Association, Sen. Hammed Oyelade.
Oyelade said the association was aware of his philanthropic gestures in helping several indigenes of Ondo State with scholarships to universities within and outside the country.
He noted that if the state could have more of Olaleye in the state, it would reduce poverty more in the state and Nigeria at large.
“We are here to appreciate and celebrate you sir and to also commend you and celebrate grace in your life, sir. We have been aware of how you have been helping Ondo State indigenes to travel abroad to further their study and how you have helped to make their lives better.
“We believe you will continue to do what you know how to do best. We will keep praying for you, sir,” he said.
Responding, the Awardee, Otunba Valentine Olaleye, said his humble background is one of the reasons why he renders his service to humanity.
“It pays to help people grow,” he said.
Olaleye, who said he did not believe in receiving awards for service to humanity, said the students’ award was the first he would accept to receive .
He said that he believed that under the leadership of the government of Aiyedatiwa, many things would change, and that value would be added to the lives of Ondo State indigenes, especially the youths.
Olaleye, who promised to stand in the gap for the association, urged the students to shy from activities or bad associations that would bring shame to the state and Aiyedatiwa’s government
“You are the future of the state. As you continue to study, look at learning a trade as well. I’m happy to provide support for young entrepreneurs in the state, too.
“If you look at your current situation and you think the future is not bright, you will be making a wrong mistake. On your campuses, be a good ambassador of the state,’ he said.
He later assured the association of monthly stipends to help them run the affairs of the association more.
