The majority leader of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Hon Temitope Adewale, on Wednesday, distributed free Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) forms to 1,750 indigent students in Ifako-Ijaiye Constituency 1.

Speaking during the presentation, Mr Adewale reaffirmed his commitment to educational development through diverse interventions.

The lawmaker said the initiative was part of his commitment to promoting education and empowering the youth in his constituency.

He added that the distribution of the forms aligned with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu’s broader education-focused initiatives aimed at fostering academic excellence and creating opportunities for the youth.

He noted the Adewale Temitope Adedeji Education Initiative ATA-EI began in 2020 with 350 free Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) forms.

“This initiative is part of my vision to make Ifako-Ijaiye one of Nigeria’s most educated local government areas.

“We have increased the number of free JAMB forms from 350 to 1,750, thereby demonstrating our support and growing commitment to education,” he said.

Mr Adewale said the initiative was part of his efforts to give back to the community and ensure a better future for the people.

He said the first 50 candidates to secure admission would receive scholarships, with guaranteed first-year tuition and potential full coverage of expenses for maintaining a first-class GPA.

Mr Adewale urged the students to take their education seriously and avoid distractions noting that education was key to future success.

The lawmaker cautioned them against cultism, drug abuse, and alcohol intake while encouraging them to stay on the right path.

Mr Adewale thanked the parents for their support and encouraged them to continue believing in their children’s potential.

Speaking on “Adult Education Programme,” the lawmaker announced plans to unveil another initiative aimed at teaching adults how to read and write.

Mr Adewale expressed optimism that many students from his constituency in 15-20 years would be in the civil service attaining to become great achievers.

Earlier, the Lagos State commissioner for basic education, Jamiu Alli-Balogun, urged parents to teach their children the right values, virtues and norms in order to be great leaders of tomorrow.

Mr Alli-Balogun also advised the students to take their studies seriously for a better future.

Victor Onifade, a legislative leader, thanked the lawmaker for being consistent in giving out free JAMB and GCE forms yearly.

“The lawmaker promised to make Ifako Ijaiye an educational community and he has kept his promises,” Mr Onifade said.

Aishat Abdulsalam, a beneficiary, who spoke on behalf of others, gave an assurance that they would make their parents and the constituency proud in the forthcoming UTME examination.

The highlight of the event was the presentation of recognition awards and N200,000 cash to some principals and teachers for their dedication and outstanding contributions towards the development of education in Ifako Ijaiye.

2025 UTME is scheduled to hold from April 25 to May 5.

(NAN)