JCIN UI Hosts Press Conference for Upcoming Fifteen Outstanding Persons Awards (FOPA)
By: Badrudeen Azeez and Happiness Ajala
The Junior Chamber International Nigeria, University of Ibadan (JCIN UI), has hosted a press conference for the upcoming Fifteen Outstanding Persons Awards (FOPA) at the UI’SRC Chamber.
The conference which was held on Friday, 3rd October, 2025, featured the JCIN UI president, Taiwo Olanlesi Odusote, Al awal Abdur Rahman (Executive Vice President, External), Olalusi Susan (Executive vice president, Internal), Lawal Quayyum (Director I for FOPA) , Ajayi Gold (Director II) and press members from different organisations.
The JCI UI President, Taiwo Olanlesi, welcomed attendees and she provided a brief history of JCI in the University of Ibadan, noting that the chapter was founded in 1983. She emphasised the organization’s focus on developing young leaders through leadership training, community service, and practical projects.
Furthermore, she explained that FOPA is an annual event that recognises and celebrates outstanding young individuals in various fields who are making a significant impact in their communities, and the awards have become prestigious in the university, spotlighting young leaders who inspire change and exemplify excellence.
She stated that the theme for this edition of the FOPA award is: “Beyond Recognition: Youths Driving Social Transformation” and the date for the event is 1st November, 2025.
Selection Process and Criteria
The President outlined the selection process, which involves nomination, voting, and a panel review. Voting carries 20% weightage, while the reason for nomination and curriculum vitae (CV) each account for 40%. The President noted that over 36,000 students in the University of Ibadan had generated 2,700 responses for the awards.
The Executive Vice President (Internal), Olalusi Susan, added that there are 10 categories for undergraduates and 5 categories for alumni. The categories for undergraduates include outstanding person in student leadership, academic excellence, sports, UI personality, faculty management, journalism, entrepreneurship, hall management, entertainment, and selfless contribution to a worthy cause.
The alumni categories include outstanding person in public administration, information technology, professional excellence, corporate governance, and media excellence.
Voting and Timeline
The President stated that stated that voting will start on Monday, 6th October, 2025, and she encouraged eligible students to participate. She emphasised that the awards are open to all qualified and eligible individuals, especially finalists, and that the University management can also nominate candidates.
Notably, the panel’s decision will be based on evidence of impact and merit, with public voting constituting not more than 20% of the overall criteria.
Additionally, questions were raised at the end of the sitting for clarification, addition, and further inquiry by the press members.
