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Felicia Adebola Adeyoyin: The Author of Nigeria’s National Pledge

Key Takeaways

Felicia Adebola Adeyoyin was a Nigerian professor and princess known for authoring the Nigerian national pledge. Born on November 6, 1938, in Ogbomoso, Oyo State, Nigeria, she had a rich educational background. She held degrees from Birkbeck, University of London, and Columbia University, New York. Adeyoyin was a Professor of Education at the University of Lagos and a consultant for the United Nations. Her national pledge was introduced by Head of State Olusegun Obasanjo in 1976. Adeyoyin received several accolades, including the Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON). She passed away on May 1, 2021.

Summary

  • Early Life:
    • Born on November 6, 1938, in Ogbomoso, Oyo State, Nigeria.
    • Attended Idi-Aba Christian Baptist School and graduated in 1957.
    • Married Solomon Adedeji Adeyoyin in 1965.
  • Education:
    • Bachelor’s Degree in Geography from Birkbeck, University of London in 1968.
    • Diploma of Education from Birkbeck, University of London in 1976.
    • M.A. in Social Studies from Columbia University, New York in 1977.
    • PhD from the University of Lagos in 1981.
  • Career:
    • Professor of Education at the University of Lagos.
    • Consultant for the United Nations.
    • Authored the Nigerian national pledge in 1976.
    • Deaconess of Yaba Baptist Church, Yaba.
  • Death and Recognition:
    • Passed away on May 1, 2021.
    • Awarded Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON) in 2005.

Early Life

Felicia Adebola Adeyoyin, born Felicia Awujoola, came into the world on November 6, 1938, in Ogbomoso, Oyo State, Nigeria. She hailed from the Iji ruling house of Saki, Oyo State, establishing her royal lineage early on. Her early education began at Idi-Aba, a Christian Baptist School, where she enrolled in 1953. The school’s robust teacher program equipped her with foundational skills that shaped her future endeavors. Felicia graduated in 1957, marking the beginning of a lifelong journey in education and national service.

In 1965, Felicia married Solomon Adedeji Adeyoyin, who had attended Idi-Aba’s brother school, the Baptist Boys’ High School. This union was a blend of shared values and mutual support, paving the way for their collaborative success in various aspects of their lives.

Education

Felicia Adeyoyin’s academic journey is a testament to her dedication to learning and professional growth. In 1968, she earned a Bachelor’s Degree with honors in Geography from Birkbeck, University of London. Her passion for education led her to pursue further studies, resulting in a Diploma of Education from the same university in 1976.

Determined to expand her knowledge, Felicia proceeded to Columbia University in New York, where she obtained an M.A. in Social Studies in 1977. This achievement was followed by her PhD from the University of Lagos in 1981. These qualifications not only highlighted her intellectual prowess but also prepared her for a distinguished career in academia and national service.

Felicia Adebola Adeyoyin

Career

Felicia Adeyoyin’s career is marked by significant contributions to education and national development. She served as a Professor of Education at the University of Lagos, where she influenced countless students and future leaders. Her expertise and dedication to education were also recognized on an international level, leading to her role as a consultant for the United Nations.

In 1976, Felicia wrote an article titled “Loyalty to the Nation, Pledge,” which was published in the July 15 edition of the Daily Times. This piece caught the attention of the then-Head of State, Olusegun Obasanjo, who modified the pledge and introduced it as the national pledge. This decree mandated that school children recite the pledge during assembly, embedding a sense of national pride and loyalty in young Nigerians.

Additionally, Felicia served as a Deaconess at the Yaba Baptist Church in Yaba, where her commitment to faith and community service was evident. Her multifaceted career exemplified her dedication to education, national unity, and spiritual growth.

Awards and Recognition

Felicia Adeyoyin’s contributions did not go unnoticed. In 2005, she was honored with the national award of Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON). This prestigious award recognized her significant impact on Nigeria’s educational landscape and her role in fostering national unity through the national pledge.

Death

On May 1, 2021, Felicia Adeyoyin passed away after a brief illness. Her death marked the end of a remarkable journey characterized by unwavering dedication to education, national service, and spiritual leadership. Her legacy, however, continues to live on through her contributions and the many lives she touched.

Tables

Educational Background

Degree Institution Year
Bachelor’s Degree Birkbeck, University of London 1968
Diploma of Education Birkbeck, University of London 1976
M.A. in Social Studies Columbia University, New York 1977
PhD University of Lagos 1981

Key Contributions

Contribution Impact
Authored National Pledge Fostered patriotism among Nigerian school children
Professor at University of Lagos Influenced education and mentored future leaders
UN Consultant Contributed to global education policies
Deaconess at Yaba Baptist Church Enhanced spiritual and community life

Conclusion

Felicia Adebola Adeyoyin’s life and work reflect a deep commitment to education, national pride, and spiritual values. Her legacy as the author of Nigeria’s national pledge continues to inspire patriotism and unity among Nigerians. Her academic achievements and professional contributions have left an indelible mark on Nigeria’s educational landscape. As a professor, consultant, and community leader, Felicia’s influence extended beyond the classroom, touching the hearts and minds of many. Her story is a testament to the power of dedication, education, and service to one’s country.

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