GOF to sponsor indigent UNILORIN medical student
By Abubakar Imam
The Sarkin Gobir and Madawaki of Ilorin, Alhaji Yakubu Garba Gobir, has announced a comprehensive scholarship for a newly-admitted medical student of the University of Ilorin, Mr Fawas Ayomide Ariyo, under the auspices of the Gobir Organisation Foundation (GOF).
Alhaji Gobir, who also holds the traditional title of Waziri Kasar Hausa, made the announcement penultimate Sunday, (November 1, 2026) while receiving Mr Ariyo and his mother at his residence in GRA, Ilorin.
The scholarship, according to Alhaji Gobir, will cover tuition and other approved university charges, accommodation and essential educational expenses throughout Mr Ariyo’s medical studies, subject to satisfactory academic progress.
He also explained that the Foundation would also facilitate appropriate academic and professional mentorship for Mr Ariyo to support his development.
Alhaji Gobir explained that his decision was inspired by Mr Ariyo’s remarkable determination, academic promise and resilience in overcoming difficult circumstances, as highlighted in an article written by a Deputy Director (Information) at the University of Ilorin and immediate past National Secretary of the Ilorin Emirate Descendants Progressive Union (IEDPU), Mr Abubakar Imam.
He noted that the initiative reflects the Foundation’s broader commitment to expanding educational opportunities for deserving young people, particularly those pursuing careers in Medicine and other healthcare professions.
According to Alhaji Gobir, supporting the education of promising medical students represents a meaningful investment in the future of healthcare delivery in Kwara State and Nigeria.
Alhaji Gobir, a pharmacist by training, observed that the shortage of qualified healthcare professionals remains a significant challenge and emphasised the importance of encouraging talented young people to enter and remain in the medical profession.
He encouraged Mr Ariyo to remain focused, disciplined and committed to his studies, reminding him that medicine is a demanding profession requiring dedication, compassion and lifelong learning.
Alhaji Gobir further explained that the Foundation intends to develop a structured scholarship and mentorship programme for academically promising students from disadvantaged backgrounds, with particular attention to Medicine and allied health disciplines.
Mr Ariyo’s progress, he added, would provide valuable experience in shaping and expanding the initiative to benefit other deserving students.
Responding on behalf of himself and his mother, Mr Ariyo expressed profound appreciation to Alhaji Gobir and the GOF for the generous intervention.
Mr Ariyo pledged to remain dedicated to his studies, strive for academic excellence and justify the confidence and investment placed in his future.
The scholarship forms part of the Gobir Organisation Foundation’s emerging programme of interventions in education, healthcare and poverty alleviation, aimed at creating sustainable opportunities and improving the wellbeing of underserved communities.
