In a remarkable show of commitment to fostering Nigeria’s educational and developmental future, Tosin Adebisi, Co-Founder of Edukate and Mercy Gilbert, Director of Edukate hosted an exclusive reception at the Abuja Continental Hotel for a cross-sector of education stakeholders. 

With many Nigerian youths dropping out of universities or unable to afford secondary or tertiary education, the event united distinguished dignitaries, corporate leaders, and education advocates to champion a call for action. Recently raising over £3,000 through the Diaspora Fund to support a Nigerian student in the United Kingdom, the event showcased the transformative power of community-driven education initiatives and the drive to assist bright students both in Nigeria and in the diaspora with Education Financing.

“We are not just funding education; we are funding dreams and building a nation ready to lead in the 21st century,” said Adebisi Tosin, Co-Founder of Edukate. “Every contribution tonight is a step toward a future where education is accessible, impactful, and transformative.”

The evening began with a welcome address by Tosin, who passionately articulated the vision behind Edukate as a disruptive aggregator platform that connects students, institutions, education providers and donors. He described it as where GoFundMe meets Air BnB providing end-to-end bespoke B2C and B2B solutions and firmly championing education as an investment opportunity in Nigeria’s future talents. 

The reception sparked critical conversations about the role of education in shaping Nigeria’s future. As the night came to a close, the shared vision of a better Nigeria—a Nigeria where education is accessible, impactful, and transformative—became the rallying cry for all in attendance.

Edukate and Edufund’s success extends beyond fundraising. The organisation hosts vibrant community events, such as webinars, end-of-month mixers and football fundraisers, to foster connections and drive support for education initiatives.

“Education is the foundation of progress, and its true power unfolds when communities unite, working together to build a brighter future for all,” said Hon. Dr. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, recipient of the Edukate Trailblazer Award. “Edukate and Edufund are transforming lives and building futures” Similarly, Dr. Dabiri highlighted the government’s commitment to improving educational access for Nigerian students and creating an enabling environment for partnerships between local institutions and international counterparts.

Oluwatobi, CEO of Payshiga and a proud partner added: “Edukate is redefining the narrative for education stakeholders. Supporting their mission means investing in a brighter, more competitive Nigeria.”

Edukate aims to support 1,000 students in 2025, expanding its impact through partnerships with international universities and organizations. Through donations, bespoke corporate events, and strategic partnerships, EduKate will fund and manage scholarships, facilitate knowledge transfer, and develop digital platforms to connect students to funding opportunities ensuring they can complete their studies at home and abroad.

As Gideon Olanrewaju, CEO of AreaI concluded, “The world is moving fast, and Nigeria must keep up. Tonight, we take a step closer to a Nigeria where education is the foundation for innovation, industry, and progress.”

Edukate also announced key partnerships with local and international universities and like-minded institutions that will enhance its capacity to deliver on its promises. Through these collaborations, the platform aims to fund 1,000 students in 2025 and increase this number in the coming years.

The evening culminated in a heartfelt appeal to attendees to contribute to this transformative cause. The funds raised will be directed toward scholarships, institutional partnerships, and the creation of digital platforms to facilitate knowledge exchange.

Dr. Ifeolu Oluronbi, Policy and Programmes Manager at Edukate left an indelible mark on the audience with the following words:

“Education is the great equalizer. Our investment in Education now would not only yield returns in changing a life but in nation-building. Every contribution tonight is an investment in the future of Nigeria, Africa, and the world —a future where our youth lead industries with innovation, and our nation shines as a beacon of development.”