In recognition of his outstanding contributions to literacy advocacy and library development, Adewumi has bagged the prestigious Ekiti Future Agenda Award. The award was presented during the 15th Anniversary and Dinner Award ceremony held on Thursday, February 27, at the Adetiloye Hall in Ado-Ekiti.
Adewumi, who hails from Ijurin Ekiti in Ijero Local Government Area of Ekiti State, has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to educational development and literacy advocacy. He holds a Diploma in Library and Information Science from Rufus Giwa Polytechnic, Owo, Ondo State, and a Bachelor’s degree in Library and Information Science from Ekiti State University, Ado-Ekiti.
A passionate advocate for literacy and community development, Adewumi has twice served as an Ambassador of the World Literacy Foundation, dedicating his efforts to library advocacy and volunteerism. His impactful initiatives have significantly contributed to the development of school libraries and literacy programs within Ekiti State and beyond.
His dedication to humanity and education traces back to his formative years. During his primary education at St. Paul’s Primary School, his leadership skills and academic excellence earned him the role of a prefect. He further distinguished himself at Ijurin Comprehensive Secondary School, where he received numerous awards for his contributions to school development.
Notably, while still in secondary school, Adewumi addressed the longstanding issue of water scarcity in Ijurin Community by personally funding the construction of a deep well, which continues to serve the people today and is affectionately named “Omi Idowu.”
Driven by the desire to enhance literacy and educational access, Adewumi founded the School Libraries Matter Initiative, a non-governmental organization focused on equipping school libraries to promote sustainable educational development. Under his leadership, the initiative has facilitated the donation of books and organized literacy conferences, underscoring the pivotal role of libraries in shaping young minds.
A landmark achievement in his literacy advocacy journey was the commissioning of the Ijurin Community Library in December 2020, a project initiated to provide accessible learning resources for students and residents.
In addition to his advocacy, Adewumi has held various leadership roles, including serving as the National Public Relations Officer (PRO) of the Nigerian Library and Information Science Students Association (N-LISSA). Demonstrating his professional dedication, he was inducted as a Certified Librarian of Nigeria by the Librarians’ Registration Council of Nigeria (LRCN) during its 15th Batch Induction and 11th Conference last year in Abuja.
Adewumi Idowu Paul is celebrated as a trailblazer in literacy advocacy, a community development champion, and an inspiring leader. His recognition with the Ekiti Future Agenda Award serves as a testament to his relentless pursuit of educational excellence and his unwavering dedication to empowering communities through knowledge and information accessibility.