Born on February 13, 1940, in Owo, Ondo State, Nigeria, Winifred Adefolahan Awosika hails from the esteemed Oshuporu Chieftaincy family. She commenced her academic journey at Government Primary School in Owo and later attended St. Anne’s Girls Secondary School in Molete, Ibadan, where she obtained her West African School Certificate in 1958.
Demonstrating an unwavering commitment to personal and professional growth, Awosika pursued higher education, earning a postgraduate Diploma in Education from the University of Lagos. She then proceeded to the Nigerian College of Arts, Enugu for Advanced/Intermediate studies and then the University College, Ibadan, (now University of Ibadan) in 1962, obtaining a Bachelor of Arts Degree in 1966. Her academic pursuits laid a solid foundation for her illustrious career in education.
Awosika’s teaching career began in various public schools, including Methodist Girls High School in Yaba and Oshodi Grammar School. These experiences provided her with firsthand insights into the educational system’s challenges and opportunities. Her passion for nurturing young minds and her desire to contribute meaningfully to society were evident from the onset.
During a hiatus from formal teaching to care for her eight children, Awosika’s dedication to education remained steadfast. She began homeschooling her three-year-old son, a practice that quickly garnered attention from friends and family. Recognizing her innate teaching abilities, they entrusted their children to her care, leading her to convert a room in her home into a nursery. This modest initiative marked the inception of her lifelong commitment to educational excellence.
In 1977, driven by a vision to revolutionize education in Nigeria, Awosika established the first Chrisland School in the Ladipo Oluwole area of Lagos. Being an alias of her local community “Abule Onigbagbo”, the Yoruba words for Christian Land, and thereafter shortened to Chrisland. What began as a nursery with just five children in the boys’ quarters of her home has grown exponentially over the decades. Today, Chrisland Schools encompass multiple nursery and primary schools, secondary schools in Lagos and Abuja, a pre-degree college, and Chrisland University, which officially received its license on March 5, 2015.
Under her visionary leadership, Chrisland Schools have become synonymous with educational excellence, fostering a nurturing and inclusive environment that instills a passion for learning and personal growth among students and teachers alike.
The expansion of Chrisland Schools is a testament to Awosika’s unwavering dedication and visionary leadership. The establishment of Chrisland College in 1987 on a 50-acre family-owned land in Idimu, Lagos State, marked a significant milestone. Starting with just five students and 20 staff members, the college has grown into a reputable institution known for its commitment to academic excellence and character development.
The growth continued with the opening of Chrisland School in Victoria Garden City (VGC) in 1998, which began with 33 students and 12 staff members. The school’s unique dome-shaped classroom buildings garnered attention even before its official launch. This expansion demonstrated Awosika’s ability to identify and meet the educational needs of emerging communities. In 2006, Chrisland High School VGC was established to cater to the increasing demand for quality secondary education. Starting with 14 students, many of whom transitioned from the primary school, it has grown to accommodate over 450 students, reflecting the institution’s commitment to holistic education.
Recognizing the exceptional capabilities of her daughter, Mrs. Ibironke Adeyemi, Awosika appointed her as the CEO of Chrisland Schools in 2006. Under this dynamic leadership, the institution has witnessed remarkable growth, encompassing seven nursery and primary school branches, including three crèche schools, six secondary schools, and one sixth-form school. This strategic succession planning ensures the perpetuation of Chrisland’s core values and pursuit of excellence.
Awosika’s vision extended beyond primary and secondary education, culminating in the establishment of Chrisland University. The university officially received its license on March 5, 2015, marking a significant milestone in her mission to provide quality education from kindergarten to tertiary levels. As the Chancellor of Chrisland University, Awosika continues to influence higher education, ensuring that the institution upholds the standards of excellence associated with the Chrisland brand.
Beyond her contributions to education, Awosika is actively involved in various philanthropic endeavors. She is a member of several international bodies and associations, including Zonta International and the National Council of Women Societies (NCWS). Her commitment to community development is further exemplified by her fellowships with the Institute of Directors Nigeria and the Ondo State Polytechnic. Her philanthropic efforts are not limited to organizational affiliations; she has personally invested in initiatives aimed at empowering women and supporting underprivileged communities. Her belief in the transformative power of education drives her to support causes that align with her vision of a better society.
Awosika’s outstanding contributions to education and society have earned her numerous accolades. In 2004, the Federal Government of Nigeria conferred on her the National Merit Award of Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON), recognizing her immense contributions to the development of the education sector.
In 2004, Awosika was conferred with the Nigeria National Merit Award as Officer of the Order of the Niger, OON; for her immense contribution to the development of education and service to the country.
She continues to be a source of inspiration to many. She mentors several clubs and societies such as Busy Bees Society of Archbishop Vinning Memorial Cathedral, Ikeja, among many others.
