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I Went Back To My Alma Mater, The University Of Ibadan, To Do This (photos) - Education - Nairaland

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I Went Back To My Alma Mater, The University Of Ibadan, To Do This (photos) by Interesting15(op): 6:34pm On Oct 25, 2025
On October 10th, 2025, I returned to my alma mater, the University of Ibadan, to deliver a lecture at the annual "Black History" event organized by the History Department. This year's theme was "Black Power and the Celebration of African Heritage," and I spoke on "Utilizing History and Your Natural Abilities to Get Ahead in Today's Society."

Here is a modified transcript of my speech:

"It is a well-known fact that one of the reasons we learn history and study the past, is to beautify our lives in the present. Those of the past lived in a different society from ours today, but indeed our lives are interconnected in different ways.

In 2018, I was a 100-level student at the Ibadan School of History, and I vividly remember sitting somewhere in this very hall during the first Black History event I attended. In my set, I was among the few who deliberately chose History when applying for admission—though I still can't fully explain why, as I could have pursued Law with my impressive JAMB score.

Many others were only dumped to the department because they couldn't meet up with the cut off mark for courses like law, political science, etc. They wondered what they could possibly do with a History degree in today's competitive Nigeria, believing their peers in disciplines like Medicine, Nursing, or Engineering had a clear advantage

Now, since we know that history always repeat itself, I'm sure there are people here who have the same thoughts. The response I will give you is that studying History will gift you these three invaluable skills and characteristics, amongst others, that can be utilised to forge ahead in life and be ahead of several others in society:

1. An Analytical Mind
2. An Excellent Creative thinker
3. An Excellent Researcher.

Many young people in our society today lack these three qualities. If you allow history to shape you, you will embody all three—and you will find yourself ahead of the curve.

Let me share a case study from my NYSC experience. Even before registering, I took time to analyze the scheme and discovered it offers a fair platform that anyone can leverage to excel. I learned that distinguishing yourself across the four major pillars of NYSC could earn you a Local Government Chairman's Award, followed by a State Government Award, ultimately making you eligible for Presidential Honours. I researched past award winners, reached out to some of them, and learned from their experiences.

During my service year, I incorporated creativity into every activity on the NYSC platform. On the day of my Passing Out Parade, I was honored with both the Lokoja Local Government Chairman's Award and the Kogi State Government Award, making me eligible for Presidential Honours.

I want to complement all I have said with admonishing you to also utilise your natural abilities, known as talents, to get ahead in life.

A case study to consider, Ladi Kwali. Her story is a powerful example of natural talent and creativity,

Ladi Kwali (1925–1984) was a Nigerian potter from Kwali, Abuja, whose natural artistic gift transformed traditional pottery into a globally celebrated art form. Born into a region where the craft was a common one among women, Ladi discovered early in life that she had a unique ability to mold clay into graceful, balanced, and decorative forms. Without formal education or technical training, she relied on her natural intuition, observation, and creativity to shape clay into vessels that were both functional and artistically beautiful.

Her skill in hand-building pots—especially water jars and cooking vessels—quickly gained her local recognition. What made Ladi stand out was her attention to detail and artistic imagination. She often decorated her pots with intricate geometric and animal designs that reflected local culture and storytelling traditions. These artistic touches gave her work a distinct identity, making her pieces sought after even before she gained national fame.

Her breakthrough came when British potter Michael Cardew, who established the Abuja Pottery Training Centre in the 1950s, discovered her talent. Impressed by her craftsmanship and natural flair for design, he invited her to join the center. There, Ladi learned modern pottery techniques such as wheel-throwing and glazing—skills she combined with her indigenous knowledge. This fusion of traditional African art and Western methods made her work stand out internationally.

Her pieces were later exhibited in London and across Europe, earning her international acclaim. She became Nigeria’s first globally recognized female potter and was featured on the Nigerian ₦20 note—an honor that immortalized her legacy. Despite the challenges women faced in her time, Ladi Kwali’s natural ability, discipline, and willingness to learn helped her excel in a male-dominated and colonially influenced society.

But what can we learn from Ladi Kwali’s journey today?

Lesson 1: Natural Talent Is Just the Beginning

Ladi Kwali was naturally gifted, but she didn’t stop there. She kept learning, improving, and mastering her craft. Whatever your talent — whether it’s art, writing, music, or leadership — don’t rely on it alone. Work hard to refine it. Talent opens the door, but discipline keeps you in the room.

Lesson 2: Value Your Culture

Ladi’s art was deeply rooted in her African heritage. She showed that our traditions and stories are treasures, not obstacles. In a world that often pushes us to copy others, she reminds us to stay original and proud of who we are.

Lesson 3: Hard Work and Humility Bring Success

She didn’t achieve fame overnight. Her rise came through years of dedication and consistency. Her humility also helped her learn from others, including those from different backgrounds. Hard work, patience, and humility never go out of style.

Lesson 4: Women Can Break Barriers

At a time when women had limited opportunities, Ladi Kwali became a national and international icon. She proved that gender is never a barrier to greatness. Her story tells every young girl here: You can achieve anything if you believe in yourself and develop your abilities.

Lesson 5: Creativity Has No Boundaries

Ladi’s creativity transformed simple clay into art that touched the world. She reminds us that greatness can come from the simplest things — if we use our imagination and passion.

In conclusion, Ladi Kwali’s life is not just the story of a potter. It’s the story of what happens when natural talent meets determination, learning, and vision. She used her hands to shape clay — and in doing so, she shaped history. Her legacy encourages each of us to discover, develop, and use our own creative gifts to make a difference in our communities and in the world.

So today, I leave you with this question:
If Ladi Kwali could use her natural abilities to make global impact with just clay and creativity, what can you do with your own gifts?

Thank you.

https://www.linkedin.com/posts/sunday-akanni-moshood-8138b033b_on-october-10th-2025-i-returned-to-my-alma-activity-7387552802715160576-h1DO?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_android&rcm=ACoAAFViT48BYmS0hSdbIMnZk6ZZW6Tz-LwwmBc

Re: I Went Back To My Alma Mater, The University Of Ibadan, To Do This (photos) by Interesting15(op): 6:36pm On Oct 25, 2025
Remember, no one is meant to be disadvantaged. You can always look inwards and exhibit the things God has deposited inside of you, to become great in life.
Re: I Went Back To My Alma Mater, The University Of Ibadan, To Do This (photos) by Interesting15(op): 6:37pm On Oct 25, 2025
In a previous post, I shared how I went back to my former secondary school to impact the new generation.

You can see that here https://www.nairaland.com/8536315/went-back-former-secondary-school
Re: I Went Back To My Alma Mater, The University Of Ibadan, To Do This (photos) by SpaceX: 6:59pm On Oct 25, 2025
Nigeria kings sold people to pennies during the slave trade era, that should be the topic of discussion
Re: I Went Back To My Alma Mater, The University Of Ibadan, To Do This (photos) by Hopez456(m): 8:35pm On Oct 25, 2025
Greatest Uites! Greatest Gbagba!

I guess you're a zikite?
Well done bro!
Re: I Went Back To My Alma Mater, The University Of Ibadan, To Do This (photos) by ogaontop(m): 9:19pm On Oct 25, 2025
You never stated your full names, portfolio or who you are?
Re: I Went Back To My Alma Mater, The University Of Ibadan, To Do This (photos) by AIfantasy: 9:21pm On Oct 25, 2025
It is always good to remember where we are coming from
Re: I Went Back To My Alma Mater, The University Of Ibadan, To Do This (photos) by 99thEnemy(m): 9:24pm On Oct 25, 2025
Interesting15:
On October 10th, 2025, I returned to my alma mater, the University of Ibadan, to deliver a lecture at the annual "Black History" event organized by the History Department. This year's theme was "Black Power and the Celebration of African Heritage," and I spoke on "Utilizing History and Your Natural Abilities to Get Ahead in Today's Society."

Here is a modified transcript of my speech:

"It is a well-known fact that one of the reasons we learn history and study the past, is to beautify our lives in the present. Those of the past lived in a different society from ours today, but indeed our lives are interconnected in different ways.

In 2018, I was a 100-level student at the Ibadan School of History, and I vividly remember sitting somewhere in this very hall during the first Black History event I attended. In my set, I was among the few who deliberately chose History when applying for admission—though I still can't fully explain why, as I could have pursued Law with my impressive JAMB score.

Many others were only dumped to the department because they couldn't meet up with the cut off mark for courses like law, political science, etc. They wondered what they could possibly do with a History degree in today's competitive Nigeria, believing their peers in disciplines like Medicine, Nursing, or Engineering had a clear advantage

Now, since we know that history always repeat itself, I'm sure there are people here who have the same thoughts. The response I will give you is that studying History will gift you these three invaluable skills and characteristics, amongst others, that can be utilised to forge ahead in life and be ahead of several others in society:

1. An Analytical Mind
2. An Excellent Creative thinker
3. An Excellent Researcher.

Many young people in our society today lack these three qualities. If you allow history to shape you, you will embody all three—and you will find yourself ahead of the curve.

Let me share a case study from my NYSC experience. Even before registering, I took time to analyze the scheme and discovered it offers a fair platform that anyone can leverage to excel. I learned that distinguishing yourself across the four major pillars of NYSC could earn you a Local Government Chairman's Award, followed by a State Government Award, ultimately making you eligible for Presidential Honours. I researched past award winners, reached out to some of them, and learned from their experiences.

During my service year, I incorporated creativity into every activity on the NYSC platform. On the day of my Passing Out Parade, I was honored with both the Lokoja Local Government Chairman's Award and the Kogi State Government Award, making me eligible for Presidential Honours.

I want to complement all I have said with admonishing you to also utilise your natural abilities, known as talents, to get ahead in life.

A case study to consider, Ladi Kwali. Her story is a powerful example of natural talent and creativity,

Ladi Kwali (1925–1984) was a Nigerian potter from Kwali, Abuja, whose natural artistic gift transformed traditional pottery into a globally celebrated art form. Born into a region where the craft was a common one among women, Ladi discovered early in life that she had a unique ability to mold clay into graceful, balanced, and decorative forms. Without formal education or technical training, she relied on her natural intuition, observation, and creativity to shape clay into vessels that were both functional and artistically beautiful.

Her skill in hand-building pots—especially water jars and cooking vessels—quickly gained her local recognition. What made Ladi stand out was her attention to detail and artistic imagination. She often decorated her pots with intricate geometric and animal designs that reflected local culture and storytelling traditions. These artistic touches gave her work a distinct identity, making her pieces sought after even before she gained national fame.

Her breakthrough came when British potter Michael Cardew, who established the Abuja Pottery Training Centre in the 1950s, discovered her talent. Impressed by her craftsmanship and natural flair for design, he invited her to join the center. There, Ladi learned modern pottery techniques such as wheel-throwing and glazing—skills she combined with her indigenous knowledge. This fusion of traditional African art and Western methods made her work stand out internationally.

Her pieces were later exhibited in London and across Europe, earning her international acclaim. She became Nigeria’s first globally recognized female potter and was featured on the Nigerian ₦20 note—an honor that immortalized her legacy. Despite the challenges women faced in her time, Ladi Kwali’s natural ability, discipline, and willingness to learn helped her excel in a male-dominated and colonially influenced society.

But what can we learn from Ladi Kwali’s journey today?

Lesson 1: Natural Talent Is Just the Beginning

Ladi Kwali was naturally gifted, but she didn’t stop there. She kept learning, improving, and mastering her craft. Whatever your talent — whether it’s art, writing, music, or leadership — don’t rely on it alone. Work hard to refine it. Talent opens the door, but discipline keeps you in the room.

Lesson 2: Value Your Culture

Ladi’s art was deeply rooted in her African heritage. She showed that our traditions and stories are treasures, not obstacles. In a world that often pushes us to copy others, she reminds us to stay original and proud of who we are.

Lesson 3: Hard Work and Humility Bring Success

She didn’t achieve fame overnight. Her rise came through years of dedication and consistency. Her humility also helped her learn from others, including those from different backgrounds. Hard work, patience, and humility never go out of style.

Lesson 4: Women Can Break Barriers

At a time when women had limited opportunities, Ladi Kwali became a national and international icon. She proved that gender is never a barrier to greatness. Her story tells every young girl here: You can achieve anything if you believe in yourself and develop your abilities.

Lesson 5: Creativity Has No Boundaries

Ladi’s creativity transformed simple clay into art that touched the world. She reminds us that greatness can come from the simplest things — if we use our imagination and passion.

In conclusion, Ladi Kwali’s life is not just the story of a potter. It’s the story of what happens when natural talent meets determination, learning, and vision. She used her hands to shape clay — and in doing so, she shaped history. Her legacy encourages each of us to discover, develop, and use our own creative gifts to make a difference in our communities and in the world.

So today, I leave you with this question:
If Ladi Kwali could use her natural abilities to make global impact with just clay and creativity, what can you do with your own gifts?

Thank you.

https://www.linkedin.com/posts/sunday-akanni-moshood-8138b033b_on-october-10th-2025-i-returned-to-my-alma-activity-7387552802715160576-h1DO?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_android&rcm=ACoAAFViT48BYmS0hSdbIMnZk6ZZW6Tz-LwwmBc
What did you say to give the lady (with hands up) the kind of happiness she seem to be expressing?

Re: I Went Back To My Alma Mater, The University Of Ibadan, To Do This (photos) by iwaeda: 9:25pm On Oct 25, 2025
Trenchard Hall? Good one, Congrats, did you stayed in Bello or Melnaby or Zik?, I know someone who claimed to have passed out of GCI, but never attended any alumni meeting. grin grin grin grin
Re: I Went Back To My Alma Mater, The University Of Ibadan, To Do This (photos) by FreeIgboho:
Interesting15:
In a previous post, I shared how I went back to my former secondary school to impact the new generation.

You can see that here https://www.nairaland.com/8536315/went-back-former-secondary-school
What EXACTLY have you achieved to be going around delivering all these lectures?
Re: I Went Back To My Alma Mater, The University Of Ibadan, To Do This (photos) by galantjoe(m): 9:29pm On Oct 25, 2025
History makes rational minda
Re: I Went Back To My Alma Mater, The University Of Ibadan, To Do This (photos) by TempleHouse: 9:46pm On Oct 25, 2025
Are you KWAM 1 or What pls ⁉️
Re: I Went Back To My Alma Mater, The University Of Ibadan, To Do This (photos) by Osariemen12: 9:51pm On Oct 25, 2025
History is one of the most useless courses in the Nigerian universities. It should be taught at the secondary school level only.


If I return the question in the last paragraph of your speech to you as the speaker, what would be your answer? You see. History might just be for motivational speakers without traceable achievements.
Re: I Went Back To My Alma Mater, The University Of Ibadan, To Do This (photos) by Jagabanbogu: 9:52pm On Oct 25, 2025
The ambience of the audience, podium and auditorium is too juvenile....

Probably you are a guy who left the department 3yrs ago.

If I am invited to my school, department, faculty or even fellowship to speak right now, I know what the ambience would be
Re: I Went Back To My Alma Mater, The University Of Ibadan, To Do This (photos) by diabeticdeals: 9:52pm On Oct 25, 2025
What?


Who be this one?

No allow folks hear am o
Osariemen12:
History is one of the most useless courses in the Nigerian universities. It should be taught at the secondary school level only.
Re: I Went Back To My Alma Mater, The University Of Ibadan, To Do This (photos) by datola: 9:53pm On Oct 25, 2025
Wow, nice of you.

You wrote so well Mr historian!
Re: I Went Back To My Alma Mater, The University Of Ibadan, To Do This (photos) by Osariemen12: 9:57pm On Oct 25, 2025
diabeticdeals:
What?


Who be this one?

No allow folks hear am o
But it is the truth. It is one of the numerous courses that do not transfer any real profitable skills to the learners. It is all for rhetorics. Please do not allow any of your sisters to study it. If they do, they would end up selling beads on Whatsapp groups and Facebook.
Re: I Went Back To My Alma Mater, The University Of Ibadan, To Do This (photos) by aribisala0(m): 10:01pm On Oct 25, 2025
University students are old these days
Re: I Went Back To My Alma Mater, The University Of Ibadan, To Do This (photos) by Kewekubosineh: 10:06pm On Oct 25, 2025
Interesting15:
On October 10th, 2025, I returned to my alma mater, the University of Ibadan, to deliver a lecture at the annual "Black History" event organized by the History Department. This year's theme was "Black Power and the Celebration of African Heritage," and I spoke on "Utilizing History and Your Natural Abilities to Get Ahead in Today's Society."

Here is a modified transcript of my speech:

"It is a well-known fact that one of the reasons we learn history and study the past, is to beautify our lives in the present. Those of the past lived in a different society from ours today, but indeed our lives are interconnected in different ways.

In 2018, I was a 100-level student at the Ibadan School of History, and I vividly remember sitting somewhere in this very hall during the first Black History event I attended. In my set, I was among the few who deliberately chose History when applying for admission—though I still can't fully explain why, as I could have pursued Law with my impressive JAMB score.

Many others were only dumped to the department because they couldn't meet up with the cut off mark for courses like law, political science, etc. They wondered what they could possibly do with a History degree in today's competitive Nigeria, believing their peers in disciplines like Medicine, Nursing, or Engineering had a clear advantage

Now, since we know that history always repeat itself, I'm sure there are people here who have the same thoughts. The response I will give you is that studying History will gift you these three invaluable skills and characteristics, amongst others, that can be utilised to forge ahead in life and be ahead of several others in society:

1. An Analytical Mind
2. An Excellent Creative thinker
3. An Excellent Researcher.

Many young people in our society today lack these three qualities. If you allow history to shape you, you will embody all three—and you will find yourself ahead of the curve.

Let me share a case study from my NYSC experience. Even before registering, I took time to analyze the scheme and discovered it offers a fair platform that anyone can leverage to excel. I learned that distinguishing yourself across the four major pillars of NYSC could earn you a Local Government Chairman's Award, followed by a State Government Award, ultimately making you eligible for Presidential Honours. I researched past award winners, reached out to some of them, and learned from their experiences.

During my service year, I incorporated creativity into every activity on the NYSC platform. On the day of my Passing Out Parade, I was honored with both the Lokoja Local Government Chairman's Award and the Kogi State Government Award, making me eligible for Presidential Honours.

I want to complement all I have said with admonishing you to also utilise your natural abilities, known as talents, to get ahead in life.

A case study to consider, Ladi Kwali. Her story is a powerful example of natural talent and creativity,

Ladi Kwali (1925–1984) was a Nigerian potter from Kwali, Abuja, whose natural artistic gift transformed traditional pottery into a globally celebrated art form. Born into a region where the craft was a common one among women, Ladi discovered early in life that she had a unique ability to mold clay into graceful, balanced, and decorative forms. Without formal education or technical training, she relied on her natural intuition, observation, and creativity to shape clay into vessels that were both functional and artistically beautiful.

Her skill in hand-building pots—especially water jars and cooking vessels—quickly gained her local recognition. What made Ladi stand out was her attention to detail and artistic imagination. She often decorated her pots with intricate geometric and animal designs that reflected local culture and storytelling traditions. These artistic touches gave her work a distinct identity, making her pieces sought after even before she gained national fame.

Her breakthrough came when British potter Michael Cardew, who established the Abuja Pottery Training Centre in the 1950s, discovered her talent. Impressed by her craftsmanship and natural flair for design, he invited her to join the center. There, Ladi learned modern pottery techniques such as wheel-throwing and glazing—skills she combined with her indigenous knowledge. This fusion of traditional African art and Western methods made her work stand out internationally.

Her pieces were later exhibited in London and across Europe, earning her international acclaim. She became Nigeria’s first globally recognized female potter and was featured on the Nigerian ₦20 note—an honor that immortalized her legacy. Despite the challenges women faced in her time, Ladi Kwali’s natural ability, discipline, and willingness to learn helped her excel in a male-dominated and colonially influenced society.

But what can we learn from Ladi Kwali’s journey today?

Lesson 1: Natural Talent Is Just the Beginning

Ladi Kwali was naturally gifted, but she didn’t stop there. She kept learning, improving, and mastering her craft. Whatever your talent — whether it’s art, writing, music, or leadership — don’t rely on it alone. Work hard to refine it. Talent opens the door, but discipline keeps you in the room.

Lesson 2: Value Your Culture

Ladi’s art was deeply rooted in her African heritage. She showed that our traditions and stories are treasures, not obstacles. In a world that often pushes us to copy others, she reminds us to stay original and proud of who we are.

Lesson 3: Hard Work and Humility Bring Success

She didn’t achieve fame overnight. Her rise came through years of dedication and consistency. Her humility also helped her learn from others, including those from different backgrounds. Hard work, patience, and humility never go out of style.

Lesson 4: Women Can Break Barriers

At a time when women had limited opportunities, Ladi Kwali became a national and international icon. She proved that gender is never a barrier to greatness. Her story tells every young girl here: You can achieve anything if you believe in yourself and develop your abilities.

Lesson 5: Creativity Has No Boundaries

Ladi’s creativity transformed simple clay into art that touched the world. She reminds us that greatness can come from the simplest things — if we use our imagination and passion.

In conclusion, Ladi Kwali’s life is not just the story of a potter. It’s the story of what happens when natural talent meets determination, learning, and vision. She used her hands to shape clay — and in doing so, she shaped history. Her legacy encourages each of us to discover, develop, and use our own creative gifts to make a difference in our communities and in the world.

So today, I leave you with this question:
If Ladi Kwali could use her natural abilities to make global impact with just clay and creativity, what can you do with your own gifts?

Thank you.

https://www.linkedin.com/posts/sunday-akanni-moshood-8138b033b_on-october-10th-2025-i-returned-to-my-alma-activity-7387552802715160576-h1DO?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_android&rcm=ACoAAFViT48BYmS0hSdbIMnZk6ZZW6Tz-LwwmBc
You should be commended. The lecture was unique and it elaborately touched on the importance of History in the evolution of mankind.

It's hoped your audience learnt few things about the place of history in our contemporary happenings and the larger society.

Kudos 👏
Re: I Went Back To My Alma Mater, The University Of Ibadan, To Do This (photos) by benardtotti(m): 10:08pm On Oct 25, 2025
Hopez456:
Greatest Uites! Greatest Gbagba!

I guess you're a zikite?
Well done bro!
Singing - " There is something i want to be oh
There is something i want to be ....
Ehhhhhhh !! I want to be a zikite
EEEEHHH !!! I want to be a zikite
Ehh ehh ehh ehHhhhhh i want to be a zikite!!!!
There is something i want to be .
Re: I Went Back To My Alma Mater, The University Of Ibadan, To Do This (photos) by Kewekubosineh: 10:12pm On Oct 25, 2025
Jagabanbogu:
The ambience of the audience, podium and auditorium is too juvenile....

Probably you are a guy who left the department 3yrs ago.

If I am invited to my school, department, faculty or even fellowship to speak right now, I know what the ambience would be
See this kid!

When did you graduate, and which is your Alma Mater?

Many of you do Cho cho cho, yet you finished school a couple of years ago.
Re: I Went Back To My Alma Mater, The University Of Ibadan, To Do This (photos) by ChoBC: 10:14pm On Oct 25, 2025
Interesting15:
On October 10th, 2025, I returned to my alma mater, the University of Ibadan, to deliver a lecture at the annual "Black History" event organized by the History Department. This year's theme was "Black Power and the Celebration of African Heritage," and I spoke on "Utilizing History and Your Natural Abilities to Get Ahead in Today's Society."

Here is a modified transcript of my speech:

"It is a well-known fact that one of the reasons we learn history and study the past, is to beautify our lives in the present. Those of the past lived in a different society from ours today, but indeed our lives are interconnected in different ways.

In 2018, I was a 100-level student at the Ibadan School of History, and I vividly remember sitting somewhere in this very hall during the first Black History event I attended. In my set, I was among the few who deliberately chose History when applying for admission—though I still can't fully explain why, as I could have pursued Law with my impressive JAMB score.

Many others were only dumped to the department because they couldn't meet up with the cut off mark for courses like law, political science, etc. They wondered what they could possibly do with a History degree in today's competitive Nigeria, believing their peers in disciplines like Medicine, Nursing, or Engineering had a clear advantage

Now, since we know that history always repeat itself, I'm sure there are people here who have the same thoughts. The response I will give you is that studying History will gift you these three invaluable skills and characteristics, amongst others, that can be utilised to forge ahead in life and be ahead of several others in society:

1. An Analytical Mind
2. An Excellent Creative thinker
3. An Excellent Researcher.

Many young people in our society today lack these three qualities. If you allow history to shape you, you will embody all three—and you will find yourself ahead of the curve.

Let me share a case study from my NYSC experience. Even before registering, I took time to analyze the scheme and discovered it offers a fair platform that anyone can leverage to excel. I learned that distinguishing yourself across the four major pillars of NYSC could earn you a Local Government Chairman's Award, followed by a State Government Award, ultimately making you eligible for Presidential Honours. I researched past award winners, reached out to some of them, and learned from their experiences.

During my service year, I incorporated creativity into every activity on the NYSC platform. On the day of my Passing Out Parade, I was honored with both the Lokoja Local Government Chairman's Award and the Kogi State Government Award, making me eligible for Presidential Honours.

I want to complement all I have said with admonishing you to also utilise your natural abilities, known as talents, to get ahead in life.

A case study to consider, Ladi Kwali. Her story is a powerful example of natural talent and creativity,

Ladi Kwali (1925–1984) was a Nigerian potter from Kwali, Abuja, whose natural artistic gift transformed traditional pottery into a globally celebrated art form. Born into a region where the craft was a common one among women, Ladi discovered early in life that she had a unique ability to mold clay into graceful, balanced, and decorative forms. Without formal education or technical training, she relied on her natural intuition, observation, and creativity to shape clay into vessels that were both functional and artistically beautiful.

Her skill in hand-building pots—especially water jars and cooking vessels—quickly gained her local recognition. What made Ladi stand out was her attention to detail and artistic imagination. She often decorated her pots with intricate geometric and animal designs that reflected local culture and storytelling traditions. These artistic touches gave her work a distinct identity, making her pieces sought after even before she gained national fame.

Her breakthrough came when British potter Michael Cardew, who established the Abuja Pottery Training Centre in the 1950s, discovered her talent. Impressed by her craftsmanship and natural flair for design, he invited her to join the center. There, Ladi learned modern pottery techniques such as wheel-throwing and glazing—skills she combined with her indigenous knowledge. This fusion of traditional African art and Western methods made her work stand out internationally.

Her pieces were later exhibited in London and across Europe, earning her international acclaim. She became Nigeria’s first globally recognized female potter and was featured on the Nigerian ₦20 note—an honor that immortalized her legacy. Despite the challenges women faced in her time, Ladi Kwali’s natural ability, discipline, and willingness to learn helped her excel in a male-dominated and colonially influenced society.

But what can we learn from Ladi Kwali’s journey today?

Lesson 1: Natural Talent Is Just the Beginning

Ladi Kwali was naturally gifted, but she didn’t stop there. She kept learning, improving, and mastering her craft. Whatever your talent — whether it’s art, writing, music, or leadership — don’t rely on it alone. Work hard to refine it. Talent opens the door, but discipline keeps you in the room.

Lesson 2: Value Your Culture

Ladi’s art was deeply rooted in her African heritage. She showed that our traditions and stories are treasures, not obstacles. In a world that often pushes us to copy others, she reminds us to stay original and proud of who we are.

Lesson 3: Hard Work and Humility Bring Success

She didn’t achieve fame overnight. Her rise came through years of dedication and consistency. Her humility also helped her learn from others, including those from different backgrounds. Hard work, patience, and humility never go out of style.

Lesson 4: Women Can Break Barriers

At a time when women had limited opportunities, Ladi Kwali became a national and international icon. She proved that gender is never a barrier to greatness. Her story tells every young girl here: You can achieve anything if you believe in yourself and develop your abilities.

Lesson 5: Creativity Has No Boundaries

Ladi’s creativity transformed simple clay into art that touched the world. She reminds us that greatness can come from the simplest things — if we use our imagination and passion.

In conclusion, Ladi Kwali’s life is not just the story of a potter. It’s the story of what happens when natural talent meets determination, learning, and vision. She used her hands to shape clay — and in doing so, she shaped history. Her legacy encourages each of us to discover, develop, and use our own creative gifts to make a difference in our communities and in the world.

So today, I leave you with this question:
If Ladi Kwali could use her natural abilities to make global impact with just clay and creativity, what can you do with your own gifts?

Thank you.

https://www.linkedin.com/posts/sunday-akanni-moshood-8138b033b_on-october-10th-2025-i-returned-to-my-alma-activity-7387552802715160576-h1DO?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_android&rcm=ACoAAFViT48BYmS0hSdbIMnZk6ZZW6Tz-LwwmBc
Is this room 32? The good old days in UI, 2012-2015/2018/2021. Greatest UITE
Re: I Went Back To My Alma Mater, The University Of Ibadan, To Do This (photos) by Shimbo96(m): 10:17pm On Oct 25, 2025
99thEnemy:
What did you say to give the lady (with hands up) the kind of happiness she seem to be expressing?
So you have to quote the full post to make your point?
Re: I Went Back To My Alma Mater, The University Of Ibadan, To Do This (photos) by Jagabanbogu:
Kewekubosineh:
See this kid!

When did you graduate, and which is your Alma Mater?

Many of you do Cho cho cho, yet you finished school a couple of years ago.
Well, let me grace you you with these info

Fslc : prince Charles nursery and primary school Lagos 1998

Waec: st Gregory college Lagos 2003

National diploma in computer engineering federal polytechnic ilaro 2006

Higher national diploma computer engineering fed poly ilaro 2009

Bachelor of engineering computer engineering university of Nigeria nsukka 2013

While in school

Class rep from ND1 to ND2

Speaker computer engineering students association

Welfare director student's union government

General secretary Anglican students fellowship

P.r.o national association of Nigerian students NANS

After school

Platoon leader at NYSC camp gombe state

C.L.O at umidike abia state copers lodge

President of university coppers at Michael opkara university of agricultural umidike abia state

President engineering students alumni UNN
2017 till date

So imagine I get invited to speak in my Alma matas

Currently

Guess!!
Re: I Went Back To My Alma Mater, The University Of Ibadan, To Do This (photos) by WhizdomXX(m): 11:27pm On Oct 25, 2025
Jagabanbogu:
Well, let me grace you you with these info

Fslc : prince Charles nursery and primary school Lagos 1998

Waec: st Gregory college Lagos 2003

National diploma in computer engineering federal polytechnic ilaro 2006

Higher national diploma computer engineering fed poly ilaro 2009

Bachelor of engineering computer engineering university of Nigeria nsukka 2013

While in school

Class rep from ND1 to ND2

Speaker computer engineering students association

Welfare director student's union government

General secretary Anglican students fellowship

P.r.o national association of Nigerian students NANS

After school

Platoon leader at NYSC camp gombe state

C.L.O at umidike abia state copers lodge

President of university coppers at Michael opkara university of agricultural umidike abia state

Currently

Guess!!
Congratulations but the picture no show.
Re: I Went Back To My Alma Mater, The University Of Ibadan, To Do This (photos) by 99thEnemy(m): 11:42pm On Oct 25, 2025
Shimbo96:
point
Forgive me! forgive me!! forgive me!!!
Re: I Went Back To My Alma Mater, The University Of Ibadan, To Do This (photos) by zenburster: 11:51pm On Oct 25, 2025
Is this an advert?

How did this make it to the front page?
Re: I Went Back To My Alma Mater, The University Of Ibadan, To Do This (photos) by Jagabanbogu: 12:13am On Oct 26, 2025
WhizdomXX:
Congratulations but the picture no show.
Which picture no show abeg
Re: I Went Back To My Alma Mater, The University Of Ibadan, To Do This (photos) by WhizdomXX(m): 12:19am On Oct 26, 2025
Jagabanbogu:
Which picture no show abeg
I thought you meant to post a picture to validate what you posted.
Re: I Went Back To My Alma Mater, The University Of Ibadan, To Do This (photos) by nedekid: 12:21am On Oct 26, 2025
Jagabanbogu:
Well, let me grace you you with these info

Fslc : prince Charles nursery and primary school Lagos 1998

Waec: st Gregory college Lagos 2003

National diploma in computer engineering federal polytechnic ilaro 2006

Higher national diploma computer engineering fed poly ilaro 2009

Bachelor of engineering computer engineering university of Nigeria nsukka 2013

While in school

Class rep from ND1 to ND2

Speaker computer engineering students association

Welfare director student's union government

General secretary Anglican students fellowship

P.r.o national association of Nigerian students NANS

After school

Platoon leader at NYSC camp gombe state

C.L.O at umidike abia state copers lodge

President of university coppers at Michael opkara university of agricultural umidike abia state

President engineering students alumni UNN
2017 till date

So imagine I get invited to speak in my Alma matas

Currently

Guess!!
Will it be right to assume you were born post 1990?
Re: I Went Back To My Alma Mater, The University Of Ibadan, To Do This (photos) by tete7000(m): 12:32am On Oct 26, 2025
Hopez456:
Greatest Uites! Greatest Gbagba!

I guess you're a zikite?
Well done bro!
Zikites and noise are like 5 and 6. I can spot one in you. Greatest Uites by the way but I no be Zikite. I was meant to be an Awoite but ended up living in Zik for most part of my stay in UI. 😁
1 2 Reply

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