From Taiye Joseph, Ilorin
A former General Manager of the Bank of Industry (BOI), Pastor Joseph Babatunde, has urged Nigerian youths to cultivate the habit of reading and continuous learning as a way of building their intellectual capacity and shaping a meaningful future.
Speaking in Ilorin during the launch of his autobiography titled Peculiar Babs: An Epitome of God’s Grace and Mercy, Babatunde stressed the importance of mental development, saying that reading plays a vital role in cognitive growth and knowledge expansion.
“Our young people must invest in their minds through books. Lifelong learning is the path to personal development and success. It is not enough to seek quick wealth; we must nurture our intellects,” he said.
Reflecting on his career, Babatunde shared that he served at the BOI for 35 years without receiving a single query or disciplinary record, attributing his success to hard work, integrity, and divine guidance.
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He announced that proceeds from the book would be used to fund the Peculiar Foundation’s proposed Technical School and Youth Empowerment Centre, aimed at tackling the social challenges facing young Nigerians.
“This book is more than my story. It is a gift of experience for others to draw lessons from. The revenue will go into empowering the next generation through skill acquisition and education,” he added.
In his review, Professor Ernest Kolade, of the University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital, described the book as an inspiring work that highlights the role of divine grace in human journeys. He said the content would serve as a moral compass for youth aspiring to become responsible leaders.
“The book does not only celebrate hard work and divine favour, but also motivates young people to strive for excellence and become change agents in their communities,” Kolade noted.
