The Chairman of Ifelodun Local Council Development Area (LCDA), Mayor Olufemi Akanbi Okeowo has distributed 500 free JAMB forms to beneficiaries within the council area.
The initiative, an annual programme, aims to remove financial barriers that prevent young people from accessing higher education.
Members of the executive council, legislative arm, and management staff attended the official presentation of the forms.
Okeowo emphasised the critical role of education in personal and national development, recounting his own journey of overcoming hardship through academic pursuit.
“Education is everything in life. Without it, we wouldn’t be where we are today. I grew up in a poor background where my parents struggled to provide for us, yet I remained determined to succeed through education. That is why I am committed to ensuring that financial difficulties do not stop young people in our community from achieving their dreams,” he said.
Beyond distributing free JAMB forms, he said the council also provides free revision materials, tuition support, and bursary awards to outstanding students in the university.
He assured beneficiaries that those who gain admission into tertiary institutions would be further supported to ensure their academic progress.
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The chairman noted that the initiative is open to all students within the council area, regardless of ethnic or religious background, reinforcing the council’s commitment to inclusivity.
Highlighting the importance of the programme, he urged students to take their education seriously, stressing that the forms should not be wasted.
Council Manager, Mr Saheed Azeez also urged the students to take their studies seriously and aim for success.
Speaking on behalf of the students, Ayomide Alana and Caleb Moses thanked the chairman for his commitment to education, noting that many students in other districts were not as fortunate.
Mayor Okeowo further emphasized that supporting students’ education helps reduce social vices by keeping young people engaged in meaningful pursuits. He encouraged beneficiaries to stay focused on their studies and strive to surpass their cut-off marks for their desired courses.
The initiative is part of a long-term strategy to empower the youth, develop human capital, and create a more educated society within Ifelodun LCDA.
In his remark, the Council Manager, Mr Saheed Azeez also urged the students to take their studies seriously and aim for professional success, emphasizing that the next time they gather should be for post-UTME registration or to mentor future students.
“This initiative is not just a giveaway; it is meant to help you become useful to yourselves and society.
We expect to see you excelling in medicine, architecture, and other top professions,” he stated. Beneficiaries expressed heartfelt gratitude to the council chairman, promising to make the most of the opportunity.
Speaking on behalf of the students, Ayomide Alana and Caleb Moses thanked the chairman for his commitment to education, noting that many students in other districts were not as fortunate.
“We are very happy and grateful for this opportunity. Many others do not have this chance, but you have given it to us. We promise not to disappoint you sir,” Caleb Moses stated.
The students also pledged to work hard and excel in their exams, with Tani Omike assuring the chairman that they would follow in his footsteps and contribute positively to society. “You have shown us that education is valuable, and we will not take it for granted.
We will study hard and make you proud,” he said. Several students also prayed for the chairman’s success, including in future elections, and thanked him for his continuous support for education in Ifelodun LCDA.
