The Chairman of Odiolowo-Ojuwoye Local Council Development Area (LCDA), Hon. Rasaq Ajala (HRA) has made a compelling plea to the youth to refrain from criticizing the government. Instead, he urged them to appreciate, support, and pray for their leaders.
This call to action was delivered during the presentation ceremony of forms and result checker cards to 250 beneficiaries of the annual Free GCE Programme, reinforcing the commitment of his administration to educational advancement.
The event, held in the council hall today, was graced by dignitaries, including local government officials and educational leaders.
Hon. Rasaq Ajala expressed gratitude to the Odiolowo Ojuwoye branch of the Nigerian Union of Teachers for their significant role in coordinating, supervising, and marking the qualifying examinations.
He extended his thanks to key figures such as the Vice-Chairman, Hon. Seyi Jakande; Secretary to the LCDA, Mujeeb Daramola; and Pastor Mrs. Folake Sonaike, among others.
Addressing the highly excited beneficiaries, Ajala emphasized the importance of recognizing and supporting the efforts of the government.
He urged, “I urge you to resist the temptation to join others in criticizing the government on social media. The opportunities you are receiving today, free of charge, are the result of the systems and structures the government has diligently established. This programme stands as a testament to that effort.”
He further articulated the positive changes brought about by the government’s initiatives, encouraging the youth to exhibit patriotism and gratitude. “The narrative has positively changed because the government is ready to support you to realize your educational goal. So, what is expected from you is nothing but a greater sense of patriotism and gratitude. Let’s strengthen our leaders with our prayers,” he added.
Highlighting the rigorous process that beneficiaries underwent, Ajala noted, “We ensured a thorough and rigorous selection process before distributing the forms. Each candidate undertook a qualifying examination, which was meticulously supervised by members of the Nigerian Union of Teachers. Today, only those who successfully met the criteria are here to receive their forms along with their result checker cards.”
The Vice-Chairman, Hon. Seyi Jakande, also addressed the candidates, urging them to prepare thoroughly for the upcoming exams and commending the chairman’s initiative. In an interactive session, beneficiaries expressed their appreciation for the programme.
Ajani Olamilekan, a beneficiary, remarked, “I must thank the chairman for this initiative. The qualifying examination is a way to prepare us for the main exam. It tested us on all the topics we have been taught. The exam required critical thinking.”
Another beneficiary, Semilore, praised the transparency of the process, stating, “The conduct of the qualifying examination is great. It gave us the opportunity to prepare adequately for the GCE. Apart from the accountability, it also tested our ability.”
Mr. Aliu Adeyemo, Chairman of the Education District 6 Parents Forum and Secretary to the Lagos State Parents Forum, lauded Hon. Ajala’s dedication and labelled him as an ambassador of parental care.
Reading a letter of appreciation from the association, Adeyemo affirmed, “Hon. Ajala has shown that he is passionate about the academic well-being of the students. He is a great ambassador of parental care.”
In response, Ajala humbly acknowledged the praise and reassured continued efforts towards community development, stating, “The reward of hard work is more work. I appreciate the letter. Rest assured that I will continue to use the instrumentality of my office to better the lives of all the people of Odi-Olowo Ojuwoye LCDA.”
The highlight of the event was the presentation of forms and result checker cards to the 250 beneficiaries.
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