FEDERATION OF YORUBA STUDENTS' MAIDEN ORATORY CONTEST AND ANNUAL ORIENTATION PROGRAM 2023.

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PRESIDENT SPEECH 
Distinguished guests, esteemed faculty members, respected elders, fellow Yoruba students, ladies, and gentlemen,

It is with great joy and a sense of pride that I stand before you today as the President of the Federation of Yoruba Students Association (FEYOSA), Nasarawa State University, Keffi Chapter. On behalf of FEYOSA, I extend a warm welcome to each and every one of you present here for the first edition of the Oratory contest among Yoruba Students and our annual orientation program for the newly admitted Yoruba students.

Today, we gather to celebrate and nurture the intellectual capabilities of our youth, while also reflecting on the importance of preserving our rich cultural heritage in the face of the overwhelming influence of globalization. The topic for the oratory contest, "In what way can Nigerian youth promote and preserve their cultural heritage amidst the influence of globalization?" truly encapsulates the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead of us. It is our responsibility to equip ourselves with knowledge, confidence, and a deep understanding of our heritage to navigate these waters successfully.

FEYOSA is committed to fostering a sense of belonging, pride, and unity among Yoruba students. We firmly believe that by celebrating and promoting our cultural heritage, we can instill a strong sense of identity and contribute positively to society. The orientation program we have organized for our newly admitted Yoruba students aims to provide them with the necessary guidance and support as they embark on their academic journey. We want to ensure that they feel connected to their roots while embracing the opportunities that await them.

In addition to the oratory contest and the orientation program, FEYOSA has taken several initiatives to engage and empower our members. We organized a welcome fiesta, featuring a lecture on capacity development and entrepreneurship initiatives, as well as an adventurous hiking trip to a nearby hill in Keffi. These activities allowed our students to not only have fun but also learn about Yoruba traditional games and culture, which are integral parts of our identity.

Moreover, we have made concerted efforts to connect with our community and establish meaningful relationships with our elders and mentors. We have visited esteemed individuals within and outside the campus, seeking their guidance and support in furthering the interests of our members. I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to Alhaji Chief Jamiu Taiwo (Oba Odo of the Yoruba Community, Keffi) for his generous support in various forms. I also extend my appreciation to the President of Kwara Progressive Society, Keffi, for standing with us, as well as Alhaji Chief Sefiu (Asipa of Yoruba Community, Keffi) for his invaluable contributions. A special mention goes to Mr. Ademola Adewale Gbenga (Baba 70), our patron, for his fatherly support and significant financial contributions to the success of this program. We must also acknowledge the unwavering support and guidance of Dr. Ibrahim Abdulaffez, our NAKSS Staff Adviser from the Department of Statistics, NSUK, who has been our pillar throughout.

I would also like to extend my gratitude to the faculty presidents, departmental presidents, NSUK Ethnic Presidents Chairman, Igala students' presidents, Timsan officials, and all esteemed individuals present here today. Your presence and support mean a lot to us, and we value your involvement in our endeavors.




Last but not least, I want to appreciate every member and student present here. Your enthusiasm, passion, and commitment to the cause of promoting and preserving our cultural heritage inspire us all. Let us remember that it is through collective effort and unity that we can achieve greatness. Together, we will continue to explore new frontiers, propose innovative ideas, and embrace the challenges that lie ahead.

Once again, I extend my warmest welcome to you all. Let us make this event and the upcoming academic session a time of growth, learning, and celebration. Thank you.

Long live FEYOSA!
Long live Nasarawa State University, Keffi!
Long live Nigeria!

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