Nigerian billionaire TY Danjuma donates new hostel to university

Timilehin Adejumobi -

Key Points

  • TY Danjuma donates second ultramodern hostel to University of Benin, reaffirming his commitment to female education.
  • This donation follows a 500-capacity female hostel in April 2023 and a $1.36 million gift to the University of Ibadan.
  • TY Danjuma’s philanthropy extends beyond education, with significant investments in healthcare and community development.

For the second time in just over a year, Nigerian billionaire and former defense minister Theophilus Yakubu (TY) Danjuma has donated an ultramodern hostel to the University of Benin (UNIBEN). This latest contribution underscores his unwavering commitment to enhancing education and supporting female students.

The new facility builds on Danjuma’s previous gift of a 500-capacity female hostel to the university in April 2023. Last year, he made a $1.36 million donation to the College of Medicine at the University of Ibadan (CoMUI), marking the largest individual donation for student housing in the institution’s history.

Danjuma family’s impact recognized

During the inauguration ceremony, UNIBEN Vice Chancellor Lilian Salami praised the Danjuma family’s consistent support. “We are here to celebrate someone who is just marvellous,” Salami said, emphasizing the transformative impact of the Danjuma family’s contributions. She noted that a simple request for assistance was not only met but surpassed, with the family providing additional support beyond expectations.

Salami recalled Daisy Danjuma’s promise of a second hostel during the first hostel’s inauguration. This promise has now come true, with the new hostel inaugurated. Salami expressed hope that the Danjumas might address the growing accommodation needs of male students. 

Representing TY Danjuma at the event, Andy Ehanire highlighted the family’s deep connection to the university and acknowledged the institution’s recognition of the Danjumas with honorary doctoral degrees.

TY Danjuma’s unwavering commitment to Nigeria

Danjuma, the majority shareholder of publicly listed Industrial and Medical Gases Nigeria Plc (IMG) and the founder of South Atlantic Petroleum, is renowned not only for his business acumen but also for his extensive philanthropic efforts.

Earlier this year, he inaugurated the Daisy Danjuma Eye Hospital in Takum, Taraba State, and a skill acquisition center in Yobe State, further demonstrating his commitment to healthcare and community development. At 85, Danjuma’s influence as a businessman, politician, and philanthropist continues to grow, with each new initiative reflecting his dedication to uplifting underserved communities across Nigeria.

Impact on education and community development

TY Danjuma’s philanthropy in education and community development is transformative. His contributions go beyond infrastructure, creating spaces that foster growth for young women. The new hostel at UNIBEN not only provides accommodation but enriches the university experience, allowing female students to focus on their studies.

In a country facing socio-economic challenges, Danjuma’s investments in education, healthcare, and community development offer hope. His family’s ongoing support for educational institutions highlights the impact of private philanthropy in addressing public needs and inspiring others to contribute.