Emmanuel Ikpeama
The Executive Chairman of Oto-Awori Local Council Development Area (LCDA), Hon. Kareem Azeez Abiodun, has reinforced his administration’s commitment to educational advancement by presenting 400 free General Certificate Examination (GCE) forms to students across the council’s five wards, while unveiling a series of initiatives aimed at expanding access to quality education and youth development. 
The presentation, held at the council secretariat, was conducted on behalf of the Chairman by the Supervisor for Education, Comrade Bello Adeniyi Mukadas, who said the programme reflects the administration’s resolve to ensure that financial constraints do not deprive deserving students of opportunities to further their education.
Speaking at the event, Mukadas described education as the bedrock of sustainable community development, noting that the council remains committed to investing in the academic growth and future success of young people in Oto-Awori LCDA.
He explained that the distribution of the free GCE forms is designed to give students the opportunity to pursue higher education without the burden of examination registration costs.
“When we support a child to sit for an exam, we are investing in the future of Oto-Awori LCDA. These forms are a statement that talent here will not be wasted for lack of resources,” he said.
Mukadas disclosed that the free GCE forms represent only the first phase of the council’s broader education agenda.
According to him, the administration will soon commence the disbursement of bursary awards to indigent students of Oto-Awori LCDA origin studying in tertiary institutions. He added that a merit-based scholarship scheme will also be introduced to reward exceptional students in secondary and tertiary institutions who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership qualities, and good character.
The Education Supervisor further announced that plans are at an advanced stage to upgrade public schools across the LCDA and establish a model learning centre equipped with modern classrooms, Information and Communication Technology (ICT) facilities, and other essential learning resources to improve teaching and learning outcomes.
Beyond academic interventions, Mukadas said the council intends to expand skills acquisition programmes, entrepreneurship training, ICT hubs, and sports development initiatives to provide young people with practical skills and create pathways to self-reliance and economic empowerment.
He emphasized that the comprehensive education and youth development programme aligns with the vision of Hon. Kareem Azeez Abiodun to build a more educated, skilled, and competitive generation capable of contributing meaningfully to the growth of the council and society at large.
Beneficiaries of the free GCE forms, alongside community leaders, commended the Chairman for prioritizing education and pledged to make the most of the opportunity. They described the initiative as a timely intervention that would ease the financial burden on many families while encouraging academic excellence.
Mukadas urged the students to remain focused on their studies and strive for outstanding performance, reiterating the Chairman’s commitment to building “an Oto-Awori LCDA where no student is left behind and where excellence is recognized and rewarded.”
