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| L-R: Itohan Iyalla, Member board of trustees, Emmanuel’s Table Foundation; Victor Alighoda, Higher Executive Officer (Counselling), University of Lagos; Oluwatobi Boshoro, Chairman, Board of Trustees, Emmanuel’s Table Foundation; Janet Oluwatoyin Aregbesola, H.O.D/Principal Assistant Registrar (Counselling), University of Lagos and Olayinka Omotola, Principal Assistant Registrar (Counselling), University of Lagos at the foundation's annual scholarship and empowerment programme recently. |
Emmanuel’s Table, a philanthropic initiative of the Prayer Network, reaffirmed its commitment to youth development as it held its annual scholarship and empowerment programme on Friday, November 21, 2025, at the University of Lagos. The event drew students, volunteers, partners, and members of the Prayer Network to a gathering marked by teaching, prayers, and life-changing opportunities for young beneficiaries.
In her remarks, Convener Oluwatobi Boshoro explained that this year’s scholarship package goes beyond tuition support. The initiative will cover obligatory fees, departmental and faculty registrations, utility charges, and—where possible—hostel accommodation. Beneficiaries will also receive a ₦25,000 stipend, with the sponsorship guaranteed until graduation for students who maintain a minimum CGPA of 3.5.
Beyond financial support, Emmanuel’s Table is widening its empowerment pipeline. One of its partners has committed to offering paid internships with pathways to full-time employment after graduation. Students will also have an opportunity to work with an event-planning company, earning up to ₦50,000 per event, presenting a rare blend of skills acquisition and financial independence for participants.
Delivering the keynote address themed “The Mind of Christ,” Pastor Oyinkan Bazuaye of RCCG The Oasis shared compelling childhood stories and reflected on how her encounter with Jesus Christ shaped her life journey and worldview. Her message resonated deeply with students navigating academic, financial, and personal pressures.
Board Member Itohan Iyalla described Emmanuel’s Table as “a seed sown by God,” emphasizing that the initiative is rooted in compassion and sustained by faith. She noted that the programme, now in its eighth year, has supported more than 1,000 individuals, with the 2025 edition marking its largest intervention cycle yet.
Iyalla highlighted that Emmanuel’s Table’s impact extends far beyond scholarships. The initiative provides support for women entrepreneurs, families in distress, and orphaned children. It also runs a year-round food programme for vulnerable households and offers grants to female business owners facing financial challenges. She added that Emmanuel’s Table has “established itself globally” and plans to further expand its outreach beyond Nigeria.
During the event, several beneficiaries expressed gratitude for the transformation the initiative is bringing to their lives.
Ajayi Mary noted that the scholarship would relieve the financial burden of school fees and essential needs. She encouraged other young women to approach the counselling unit for information on similar opportunities.
Adesanya Oluwadamilola, a 300-level Mass Communication student, said she learned about the scholarship through a friend. “Beyond the grant and scholarship, I have learnt a lot from the life stories shared today,” she said, pledging to maintain strong academic performance.
Another beneficiary, Eletome Godwin, expressed appreciation for being selected from among many applicants. “Many people applied and didn’t make the list. It is not by our power,” he said, urging fellow students to trust God and remain persistent.
Despite its expanding reach, Iyalla emphasized that Emmanuel’s Table is funded primarily by anonymous individual donors, whose trust in the initiative’s impact continues to attract more support across different sectors.
With its blend of spiritual guidance, financial support, and empowerment opportunities, Emmanuel’s Table is steadily reshaping the academic and personal journeys of young people—one student at a time.