….“We Are Breaking The Barrier Of Poverty From Education” — Jakande
Emmanuel Ikpeama.
Odi Olowo-Ojuwoye, Lagos— It was a day of cheers, hugs and renewed hope as Hon. Dr. Seyi Jakande, Executive Chairman of Òdì‑Olowo/Ojuwoye LCDA, cleared the GCE registration fees for 1,000 students and handed them more than just forms, he handed them a future.
The council hall was packed with excited students, proud parents, teachers and community leaders who came to witness what many described as “education with action, not just talk.”
In an emotional address, Chairman Jakande told the beneficiaries that government’s job is to remove obstacles, not create them.
“Today, we are breaking the barrier of poverty from education. No brilliant child in Òdì‑Olowo/Ojuwoye should be forced to sit at home because they cannot afford GCE fees.
Your background will not determine your breakthrough,” he declared to a loud ovation.
The students didn’t just receive pins. Council ICT staff were on ground to complete their online registration instantly — meaning every one of the 1,000 walked out fully registered and exam-ready.
To help them aim higher, each student also got “My Career Handbook”— a roadmap packed with tips on choosing courses, building skills, and planning for jobs of the future.
Jakande challenged the students to repay the gesture with hard work.
“This is not charity. This is an investment. Invest it back by making us proud with excellent results. Study hard. Dream big. Nigeria needs your brain, not your excuses,” he charged.
He added: “When you pass and get admission, you are not just helping yourself. You are lifting your parents, your siblings, and the next child watching you.”
The event had the full backing of the community. Dignitaries present included Vice Chairman Hon. Gbeminiyi Awodogan; Leader of the House Hon. Lekan Adeyi; Education Secretary Mr. Yusuf Olokodana; Party Chairman Hon. Ismail Babatunde (TUNKAZ); all Councillors and Executive Members.
Speaking with newsmen,Rev. Bright Ehiwusa of CAN said “education is the greatest empowerment,” while Imam Hussain Ijewoli prayed that “Allah will make these children great ambassadors of Òdì‑Olowo/Ojuwoye.”
Alhaji Surajudeen Adeshina and School Board rep Hon. Olaniyan described the program as “timely, practical, and life-changing.”
Jakande stressed that the GCE intervention is just one piece of a bigger plan to make Òdì‑Olowo/Ojuwoye the “education hub” of the state.
“Our goal is simple: Every child must read, every youth must have a skill, and every family must have hope. That is how we build a safer, smarter and more prosperous LCDA,” Jakande said.
Parents who spoke at the event were full of gratitude. One mother said, “Chairman has lifted a heavy load from my shoulder. I was worried about how to pay for two children. Today that worry is gone.”
The event ended with students chanting “Up Jakande! Up Education!” — a clear sign that the message had landed.
