The Oba of Oworonsoki, Lagos, Oba Bashiru Oloruntoyin Saliu, Elebo 1 has disclosed how he gained admission into the University of Lagos at the age of 52.
The traditional ruler, who graduated with a diploma in mass communication, made this known in an interview with Vanguard published on Sunday.
Oba Saliu said his desire to be relevant as a king made him put aside the age gap between him and his coursemates.
Speaking about his educational background, the traditional ruler said, “I went to Muslim Mission School, Oworonsoki for my primary and secondary education. My father died when I was very young thus affecting my education. I continued with life and, at the appointed time, I ascended the throne of my forefathers. Unfortunately I was limited in my activities as a king because I was not educated. I then decided to improve myself. So I opted to pursue a National Diploma programme at the University of Lagos in 2008/2009 session. I sat for the entrance examination with my grandchildren’s age mates. When I started the programme, I had a course adviser, the late Okunuga, who told me I was not too old to learn and that there is no end to education. He was among those who encouraged me to study mass communication. I was 52 years old when I gained admission into UNILAG. Being an Oba is an inheritance. I am a descendant of the founder of Oworonsoki who came from Ile-Ife and settled in the place called Oworonsoki today. He came with his crown from Ife and that is the same crown I am wearing today.”
He noted that instead of acting awkwardly because of the age difference between them, he encouraged his classmates to study hard for their programme.
“I was encouraging them to study hard. I told them I was in school to learn, that I had no opportunity when I was young. But that I needed education as a king so as to be bold and able to communicate with people. The truth is that I went to school with pain and determination,” he added.