Winner of the Mzehemen U Tiv Foundation (MUTF) Woman of the Year Award and ex-corps member, Gbadamosi Oluwatosin Gold a.k.a Terkumaiwuese, says she hopes the award will inspire other Corps members to strive for excellence and make a difference in their communities.
Oluwatosin, who was born in Oyo State, did her mandatory one-year national service at Mbagwa Community Secondary School, Lessel, Ushongo Local Government Area, and was a member of the Environment and Sanitation Community Development Service (CDS) group. Her group initiated the renovation of Mbagwa Community Secondary School Library, and Oluwatosin featured prominently in cultural activities in her school, catching the attention of the Tiv community. She also adopted the Tiv name: Terkumaiwuese.
On Thursday, June 12, after her National assignment, MUTF presented her with the Woman of the Year award and a One Hundred Thousand Naira (N100,000.00) cash prize at a ceremony in Makurdi, the Benue State capital. The event coincided with Nigeria’s Democracy Day.
Prof. Kohol Iornem, MUTF founder and Executive Director, says the award recognises Olutosin’s “outstanding contributions to the Benue community as a National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member, as well as for her deep love and passion for Tiv culture.”
She once told Prof. Iornem that her love for Tiv culture was inspired by the unique sound of the language.
“The language sounded unique, and I fell in love with it. I became eager to learn it. The people are also loving and accommodating. I must learn more about them and their culture,” she is quoted to have said.
“This recognition is not just a personal honour but a testament to the collective efforts and support of my loved ones, home and abroad, my students, my PPA, and my community.
“The accompanying cash gift is a wonderful gesture, and I’m touched by your generosity. I accept this award with humility and a renewed commitment to continue making a positive impact anywhere I find myself.
“May this recognition inspire other Corps members to strive for excellence and make a difference in their communities. Once again, thank you for this incredible honour!” Oluwatosin said after receiving the award.
The ex-corps member dedicates her award to Msughter Raphael Chekwa and Gideon Selumun for their support, which was facilitated by “Aondo (God),” while praying that “Tivland continue to thrive in peace and love.”
“Heartfelt gratitude to the esteemed Prof. Kohol Shadrach Iornem, Mzehemen U Tiv Foundation, and the entire Tiv nation for bestowing upon me the prestigious Woman of the Year award,” she stated.