96-Year-Old Mom Launches $6M Fund for Nursing Students

At 96 years old, most people are content to watch the world go by. But Lateefat Gbajabiamila just launched a 2.5 billion naira (roughly $6 million) development fund to transform nursing education in Nigeria.

The grandmother received an honorary doctorate from Summit University in Offa for her decades of community service. But instead of simply accepting the award, she used the moment to create something lasting.

Mrs. Gbajabiamila announced the establishment of the Lateefat Gbajabiamila College of Nursing at Summit University. The fund will train young nurses to become what she calls "compassionate leaders and healers." Her vision is clear: create a place where students learn not just medical skills, but how to serve with heart.

Her son Femi Gbajabiamila, Chief of Staff to Nigeria's President, immediately pledged 200 million naira (about $500,000) to support his mother's dream. The announcement drew applause from government ministers, politicians, and business leaders who attended the ceremony.

"This is my prayer made visible," Mrs. Gbajabiamila told the audience. She credited her late husband, a chief magistrate, for shaping her commitment to service. She also thanked her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren for supporting her work.

The Ripple Effect

The impact extends far beyond one college. Nigeria, like many countries, faces a critical shortage of trained nurses. This fund addresses that gap while creating opportunities for young people, especially women, to enter healthcare careers.

Musedeeq Adeniji-Kazeem, National President of Ansar-Ud-Deen Society of Nigeria, praised Mrs. Gbajabiamila's example. He urged other Nigerians with means to follow her lead. "We must strive to live a life of impact," he said. "Let us leave lasting legacies."

University officials are now calling on donors to contribute to the fund. Their goal is to make quality nursing education accessible to students who might not otherwise afford it.

Mrs. Gbajabiamila's story proves an essential truth: it's never too late to make a difference, and legacy isn't about what you keep but what you give away.