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From Taiwo Oluwadare, Ibadan
A Senior Lecturer at the Oyo State College of Agriculture and Technology (OYSCATECH), Igboora, Mrs. Tolu Onolapo Oyaniyi, celebrated her 40th birthday in a unique way by launching both a Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) and a Christian-themed motivational book, ‘Called for More’ over the weekend at the International Conference Centre, University of Ibadan.
The event, attended by colleagues, family, and friends, marked the inauguration of Mahanaim Encounter Global Outreach (MEGO), a faith-based NGO committed to nurturing children and empowering women through spiritual, educational, and community development initiatives.
While unveiling the organization, Oyaniyi described the birth of MEGO as a divine assignment inspired by her personal encounter with God during a difficult season in 2023.
“This day holds deep meaning for me,” she said. “It is about total surrender to God and yielding to His divine purpose to raise a new generation of boys and girls who are deeply rooted in God’s word, who will discover their identity in Him, and work for the advancement of His kingdom. Our focus is on children’s welfare, education, and spiritual growth. We are committed to giving young people a strong foundation in faith and purpose.”
According to her, the NGO will also pay special attention to mentoring young girls and supporting women to balance family, career, and spiritual calling. “We want women to know they can flourish in purpose, manage their homes with grace, and still fulfill God’s call on their lives,” she added.
Speaking about her new book, Called for More, the lecturer explained that it was written to inspire women to rise beyond societal limitations and discover their God-given purpose.
“The book draws from the stories of biblical women like Ruth, Esther, Mary, Deborah, and Priscilla, who embraced their identity in Christ and did extraordinary things for God’s kingdom,” she said. “It is my hope that women who read this book will realize that life is more than being just a wife or mother that they, too, are called for more.”
Oyaniyi, who currently serves as the Head of the Department of Crop Production Technology at OYSCATECH, reflected on her journey at 40 as one of rediscovery and divine alignment. “At 40, I’m walking in God’s purpose for my life. Before I was formed, He knew me and ordained me for a purpose beyond the ordinary. I’m grateful to be fulfilling that purpose now,” she said.
Earlier in his sermon at the opening devotion, Very Rev’d Davison Aluko from Bodija Methodist Church commended Oyaniyi’s decision to dedicate her milestone to God’s service, describing it as a model of divine obedience. He urged attendees to seek “Divine Leading” in their personal and professional pursuits.
“True progress sometimes appears like moving backward, but when God is leading, it is progress in disguise,” Aluko said. “Those who listen to God’s voice will never stumble. I pray that everyone here will hear His voice clearly and reach their God-ordained destination.”
The ceremony featured prayers, worship, readings from Called for More, and goodwill messages from colleagues and family members, who praised Oyaniyi’s passion for youth empowerment and her devotion to Christian service.
Her initiative, Mahanaim Encounter Global Outreach (MEGO), is expected to begin operations with community-based outreach programs, mentorship for young girls, and literacy campaigns across schools in Oyo and neighboring states.
