The Chairman of Odi-Olowo Ojuwoye LCDA, Hon Razaq Ajala (HRA), has launched an art competition for primary school pupils.
The initiative, aptly named “Vibrance Unleashed Art Exhibition,” commenced with great enthusiasm on Wednesday, July 17, 2024, at the Council Secretariat Hall.
This event marks a significant milestone in fostering artistic expression and creative thinking among the youth of Odiolowo Ojuwoye.
The competition drew participants from 27 primary schools within the Odiolowo Ojuwoye LCDA, with the top ten pupils selected based on their artistic depictions of the community.
These budding artists will then have the honor of showcasing their work at the annual art exhibition scheduled for August.
HRA emphasized the imperative of nurturing the creative and artistic faculties of young pupils.
“The primary objective of this programme is to cultivate and nurture the creative and artistic talents of our pupils in Odiolowo Ojuwoye. Our vision for the future of Odiolowo Ojuwoye should not be limited to the aspirations of the current leadership alone. It is imperative that we integrate the perspectives and dreams of the younger generation, who are destined to be the future leaders of our community. By doing so, we ensure that their visions are harmoniously aligned with our strategic agenda for the development and prosperity of Odiolowo Ojuwoye,” HRA said.
He passionately articulated his vision for the community,
“I envision an Odiolowo Ojuwoye characterized by a world-class road infrastructure, ensuring seamless connectivity and transportation across the region. Each political ward will be equipped with fully functional primary healthcare centers, providing accessible and quality healthcare services to all residents. Our primary schools will be built and maintained to the highest standards, capable of competing with the finest private educational institutions.
“Moreover, I aspire to create a peaceful community with minimal crime, fostering a safe environment where our young boys and girls can thrive and contribute meaningfully to the National Gross Domestic Product. My dream is to establish a community that is inclusive and equitable, offering opportunities and support to all individuals regardless of their socio-economic status. This comprehensive vision aims to enhance the quality of life for every resident of Odiolowo Ojuwoye, ensuring sustainable growth and development for generations to come.”
The event also witnessed the commendation of the Council Chairman by the Education Secretary of Mushin Local Government Education Authority, Princess Akinlude, for his unwavering commitment to educational and people-oriented programs.
She introduced Oyebanji Peter, a young artist who has been voluntarily training pupils at the Art Clinic located in the Muslim Mission and Shokunbi Primary School Complex.
In a magnanimous gesture, HRA granted Peter automatic employment and pledged to transform the Art Clinic into a state-of-the-art Art and Craft Laboratory. This facility will be equipped with modern tools to further hone the creative skills of the pupils and will be managed by Peter.
Duke Dipo Akinsete, the Senior Special Assistant on Protocol and Programmes to the chairman, underscored the importance of the art competition.
“This competition serves as a prelude to the forthcoming art exhibition, which will showcase the remarkable talents of young artists from the Odiolowo Ojuwoye community. It provides a unique platform for these emerging artists to express and narrate the story of our community, capturing both its current essence and future aspirations through their creative works.
“In addition to highlighting local artistry, this event also marks a significant milestone: the third anniversary of the Chairman’s second term in office. It stands as a testament to the Chairman’s ongoing commitment to fostering cultural development and supporting the arts within our community. By celebrating this occasion, we aim to not only honor the achievements of the past but also to inspire continued growth and creativity among our youth,” he said.
Akinsete encouraged the pupils to remain focused and determined in refining their art skills, despite the challenges posed by societal attitudes towards art and craft education.
The pupils’ artworks vividly depicted their dreams for the Odiolowo Ojuwoye community. Chijoke Pasca Chidera from Agege Motor Road Primary School expressed his gratitude towards the Council Chairman for the opportunity to explore art. His drawing featured a beautiful house adorned with modern appliances and furniture, reflecting his dream of a community where everyone enjoys a comfortable and aesthetically pleasing living environment.
Korede Samuel envisioned a community with well-maintained roads, beautiful houses, and streetlights. His artwork portrayed houses and cars moving smoothly on well-lit streets, epitomizing his dream of a progressive and orderly Odiolowo Ojuwoye.
