In a heartwarming boost to education and community development, the National Association of Seadogs (NAS): Pyrates Confraternity, Katamaran Deck, has paid the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) fees for thirty indigent but academically outstanding students in Ijebu-East Local Government Area of Ogun State. The gesture, delivered under the Nathaniel Oyelola Memorial Scholarship Scheme (NOMS), reaffirmed the confraternity’s enduring commitment to youth empowerment and nation-building.
The beneficiaries, selected from St. Anthony’s Senior Grammar School, Ijebu-Imushin; Ijebu-Ife Community Senior Grammar School, Ijebu-Ife; and Itele High School (Senior), Itele, were formally honoured at a Congratulatory and Award Presentation Ceremony held on Wednesday, December 10, 2025, at St. Anthony’s Senior Grammar School, Ijebu-Imushin.
Designed to ease financial barriers and reward excellence, the Nathaniel Oyelola Memorial Scholarship Scheme has remained a lifeline for brilliant students from underserved communities. Beyond paying WAEC fees, the programme also focuses on motivation, guidance, and inspiring beneficiaries to maximise the opportunity placed before them, while strengthening the bond between NAS and host communities.
Welcoming guests, Dr. Olusola S. Adeyemi of the Katamaran Deck described the initiative as a collective responsibility to uplift young minds and invest in a brighter future. He noted that the event underscored NAS’ unwavering partnership with communities across Ijebu-East. The Vice Principal of the host school, Mrs. Ogunnowo Olufunmilayo Bose, expressed deep appreciation for the consistent support public schools in the area continue to receive from the confraternity.
Providing insight into the scholarship’s mission, the Secretary of Katamaran Deck, Mr. Yomi Obisanya, explained that NOMS was created to bridge the gap for brilliant students constrained by finances. “This scholarship is not just about paying WAEC fees; it is an investment in the future of our communities. When we empower young minds, we build a stronger and more enlightened society,” he said.
The Deck Capoon, Comrade Jamal Apena, delivered a stirring motivational session, urging beneficiaries to approach their WAEC examinations with discipline, focus, and integrity. “This scholarship is a stepping stone, but your success will be defined by the discipline you apply,” he told the students. Engr. Lawal Popoola, representing the Young Elites Club of Ijebuland, an NGO partnering with NAS, also congratulated the awardees and encouraged sustained commitment to their studies.
A highlight of the event was the presentation of Letters of Award to each beneficiary, drawing applause and visible excitement from students, parents, and teachers. Many parents described the intervention as a huge relief that restored confidence and hope in their children’s academic journey.
Stakeholders praised the initiative for reshaping misconceptions about the Pyrates Confraternity, applauding its transparency and humanitarian focus. One parent noted that the programme revealed “an organisation that genuinely cares about the future of our youths,” while calling for greater public sensitisation of NAS’ civic role.
Speaking for the beneficiaries, Akanbi Peter Olaoluwa said the scholarship had lifted a heavy burden from his family, while Akinola Azeez Opeyemi and Kokori Joshua pledged to work harder and justify the confidence reposed in them.
In his vote of thanks, Welfare Officer Mr. Samuel A. Idowu appreciated all partners and reaffirmed Katamaran Deck’s commitment to sustaining the scholarship. His closing remarks echoed the collective hope that the initiative will continue to inspire excellence and transform lives for years to come.
