The Executive Chairman of Okemesi/Ido-Ile Local Council Development Area (LCDA), Hon. Ajibade Sunday Owolabi, has restated his administration’s dedication to quality education and the general well-being of children within the council area.
Hon. Ajibade made this known on Tuesday, 27th May, 2025, during the Children’s Day celebration held at the playground of Fabunmi Memorial Grammar School, Okemesi-Ekiti.
Addressing the gathering, the Council boss described the occasion as a moment to reflect on the value of children as the future of the nation.
He emphasised the collective responsibility of parents, teachers, and government at all levels in nurturing children through sound education and moral guidance.
The Chairman noted that this year’s theme, “Stand Up, Speak Up: Building a Bullying-Free Generation”, is both timely and appropriate, given the growing incidents of bullying in schools, homes, communities, and online platforms.
He encouraged children to always speak up in the face of bullying, noting that silence only emboldens the oppressor. “Be courageous and never be afraid to raise your voice against bullying. Your voice can make a difference,” Hon. Ajibade urged.
The council boss said his government has made steady progress in supporting education and the welfare of underprivileged pupils through initiatives such as the regular purchase of UTME forms for deserving students, provision of laptops to enhance digital learning in the ICT centre, and welfare packages to support vulnerable students across the LCDA.
He called on parents and guardians to instill core values such as honesty, discipline, and patriotism in their children, warning against involvement in social vices like cultism, drug abuse, cybercrime, and examination malpractice.
The Chairman also appreciated teachers for their selfless service in moulding young minds and assured them of continued support from the LCDA in their educational duties.
The well-attended event featured parades, cultural displays, and presentations by pupils from various schools across the LCDA.