From Taiye Joseph, Ilorin
The Kwara State Government, has praised the efforts of Ambassador Tajudeen Olesin, founder of the Tajudeen Olesin Foundation, along with other philanthropists, for their significant contributions to the development of the state’s educational sector.
This commendation was made during the closing ceremony of the foundation’s free summer lesson programme in Ilorin.
Speaking at the event, the Special Adviser to Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, Alhaji Saadu Salau, applauded Ambassador Olesin for his consistent support in providing scholarships and covering the registration costs for JAMB examinations for many students.
Salau emphasised that the foundation’s activities, now in their sixth edition, have been instrumental in complementing the state government’s focus on education.
“This foundation has consistently invested in human capital development, particularly in education, which is one of the best ways to immortalize one’s legacy. Ambassador Olesin’s initiatives have directly supported the state’s efforts under Governor AbdulRazaq’s leadership to prioritize and transform education,” Salau stated.
He further highlighted the government’s achievements in education over the past five years, including the construction, renovation, and remodeling of over 600 schools, leading to remarkable performance by Kwara State students in national and international competitions.
Salau, called on other well-meaning individuals to follow Ambassador Olesin’s example, stressing the importance of community involvement in tackling the challenge of out-of-school children, particularly in Northern Nigeria.
He noted that Kwara has been able to avoid this challenge due to the government’s prioritization of education.
Ambassador Olesin, in his remarks, reflected on the foundation’s contributions to both education and community development.
He detailed projects such as the renovation of classrooms, provision of computers to schools, and financial assistance to market women and petty traders.
He also introduced entrepreneurial skills to students during this year’s summer lesson programme.
The event was attended by notable personalities, including members of the Kwara State House of Assembly, state civil service leaders and traditional and spiritual leaders.
Former University of Ilorin Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Abdulganiyu Ambali, urged students to make good use of the knowledge they acquired and commended Ambassador Olesin’s philanthropic efforts.
The Kwara State Government reaffirmed its commitment to collaborating with stakeholders to ensure continued improvements in the educational sector.
