In a heartfelt gesture of giving back, Mr. Kolawole Abefe Suuti, popularly known as Kola Custom, on Monday, March 10, 2025, fully paid the West African Examination Council (WAEC) fees for all 26 eligible students of his alma mater, Gbongan/Odeomu Anglican Unity School, Gbongan.
Speaking at the event, Suuti shared that this act of philanthropy had been a long-held dream, promising himself that whenever God blessed him, he would extend a helping hand to students facing financial difficulties.
Reflecting on his own struggles as a student of Gbongan/Odeomu Anglican Unity School between 1989 and 1995, he recalled a defining moment when he was sent home for unpaid school fees. Overcome with emotion as he walked home in tears, he encountered the then local government chairman and first executive chairman of Ayedaade Local Government, Chief Mrs. Aduke Raji. Moved by his plight, she paid his school fees, an act of kindness that left a lasting impact on him.
Encouraging the students, Suuti urged them to remain focused on their studies and strive to become exemplary representatives of their families and communities.
The school’s principal, Mr. A.O. Adesanmi, expressed profound gratitude, noting that in the history of the institution, no single individual had ever covered WAEC fees for all eligible students. He called on other alumni to emulate Suuti’s generosity and support the school.
Representing the Olufi of Gbongan, High Chief Quazeem Ayodeji Onikepe, the Balogun of Gbonganland, conveyed the Kabiyesi’s appreciation and offered prayers for Suuti’s continued success.
Chief Onifade, a special guest at the event, described Suuti’s gesture as a landmark moment in the school’s history, emphasizing its significance in inspiring future generations.
In a show of appreciation, the school’s senior prefects, speaking on behalf of the students, praised Suuti’s generosity and pledged to uphold the school’s legacy by being worthy ambassadors.
With this noble act, Suuti has not only relieved financial burdens but has also set a powerful example of how one individual’s kindness can transform lives and inspire a culture of giving within the community.
