Femi Adojutelegan: A capped Amateur Boxer’s Legacy of Giving Back To His Alma Mater

Femi Adojutelegan: A capped Amateur Boxer’s Legacy of Giving Back To His Alma Mater

By KDO, BA and JA

On January 12, 2025, Femi Adojutelegan, a proud alumnus of Methodist High School, Owo (MHSO), and a capped amateur boxer, reaffirmed his enduring love for his alma mater with another remarkable gesture. Known for his passion for sports, education, and philanthropy, Femi continues to stand tall as a shining example of how giving back can immortalize cherished memories and inspire future generations.

Femi’s connection to MHSO runs deep, rooted not only in nostalgia but in gratitude for the opportunities and mentorship he received during his formative years. An old student captured the sentiment succinctly, saying, “No bi today Femi dey do this.” This colloquial remark underscores the consistency of his support for the school, likening him to another notable alumnus, Mike Solanke. Together, these two men have become pillars of unwavering generosity, contributing to MHSO in areas ranging from sports to educational resources like books, computers, and financial aid.

A Sporting Journey Shaped by Chief Ayeleso

Femi’s love for sports began during his days at MHSO. Starting as a long-distance runner specializing in the 1500 meters, he eventually found his true calling in boxing during his final year. This transition was made under the guidance of the late Chief Ayeleso, the school’s revered principal, whose influence shaped the trajectory of many students.

“Chief Ayeleso was instrumental to whatever exploits I made in boxing. He ensured I participated in the first Ondo State Sports Festival in 1977,” Femi recalls with a sense of deep appreciation.

For Femi, boxing was more than a sport; it was a discipline that taught him resilience, focus, and the importance of mentorship. While Chief Ayeleso ensured that Femi didn’t box recklessly, his firm yet supportive approach instilled in the young athlete a sense of responsibility and respect.

Femi fondly remembers Chief Ayeleso as more than a principal. “He was a father figure who wanted to see us excel in our various fields of endeavors,” Femi shared. This paternal role played by the principal left an indelible mark on Femi, influencing not only his sporting career but also his commitment to giving back.

A Tribute to a Mentor

Today, Femi continues to honor the legacy of Chief Ayeleso. In a move that blends nostalgia with philanthropy, he has donated four trophies for the finals of the Ayeleso Inter-Class Football Competition. These trophies will be awarded to the winners in the boys’ and girls’ categories, as well as the best soccer players in both divisions.

“I donated the trophies for the Ayeleso Inter-Class Football Competition to honor the late school principal who was nice to us,” Femi explained. “It’s my way of immortalizing his legacy and ensuring his contributions are remembered by generations of students.”

This act of generosity is a reflection of Femi’s belief in the transformative power of education and sports. It also highlights his understanding of the importance of creating opportunities for young people to thrive, just as opportunities were created for him decades ago.

The Apple That Never Falls Far from the Tree

The fact that Femi is channeling his resources into soccer—a sport he passionately supports—underscores his commitment to nurturing talents and fostering unity among students. “The fact that he’s donating these trophies today for soccer in honor of the principal ‘who did not allow him to box everywhere without permission’ is a classic affirmation for the tree that bore him,” a fellow alumnus remarked.

Indeed, Femi’s acts of kindness illustrate that he is an apple that has not fallen far from the tree. His generosity mirrors the values instilled in him by mentors like Chief Ayeleso, and his actions inspire others to follow suit.

Beyond Sports: A Broader Vision

Femi’s contributions to MHSO extend far beyond sports. Over the years, he has supported various initiatives aimed at improving the school’s infrastructure, enhancing educational resources, and fostering a sense of community among students and alumni. Whether it’s donating computers to modernize the school’s learning environment or funding scholarships for deserving students, Femi’s efforts have left an indelible mark on the institution.

For Femi, these contributions are not just about giving back; they are about paying forward the kindness and opportunities he received. “MHSO made me who I am today,” he often says, attributing his successes to the foundation laid during his time at the school.

A Legacy in the Making

Femi’s journey from a long-distance runner to a boxer, and now a philanthropist, is a testament to the power of mentorship, discipline, and community. His story is one of resilience and gratitude, and it serves as a powerful reminder of the impact that educators and mentors can have on their students.

As the Ayeleso Inter-Class Football Competition kicks off, the trophies donated by Femi stand as symbols of excellence, unity, and the enduring bond between a student and his alma mater. They are a tribute to a principal who believed in the potential of his students and a reminder of the responsibility that comes with success.

For the students of MHSO, Femi’s story is an inspiration to dream big and give back. For his fellow alumni, it is a call to action to contribute in their own way to the school that shaped their lives. And for the community at large, it is a celebration of the enduring power of mentorship and the transformative impact of sports and education.

A Future Built on Gratitude

As Femi continues to support MHSO and other initiatives, his legacy grows richer. His contributions are not just about preserving the past but about building a future where every student has the opportunity to excel, just as he did.

In the words of an old student, “Femi’s kindness is a reflection of the values instilled in him at MHSO. He is a true son of the school, and his legacy will inspire generations to come.”

Femi Adojutelegan’s story is not just about a boxer or a philanthropist. It is about a man who understands the value of gratitude, the importance of giving back, and the enduring bond between a student and the institution that shaped him. And in this, he stands as a beacon of hope and inspiration for all.