By: Manoah Kikekon
BADAGRY, LAGOS – The Executive Chairman of Badagry West Local Government, Hon. Rauf Ibrahim Kayode Yemaren (RIKAY), has announced a major expansion of the council’s educational support programmes. The announcement, made during a Students’ Engagement and Symposium, underscores the administration’s commitment to alleviating the financial burdens on students and their families amidst current economic challenges.
Speaking to a packed hall at the Suntan Beach Registry on Thursday, Chairman RIKAY unveiled a strategic plan to double the capacity of the council’s free tutorial initiative. “To bring this essential service closer to our students, we will be expanding our GCE Tutorial Centre from one location to two new centres, strategically located at the Owode and Seme axes,” he declared. This move is designed to improve accessibility for students across the entire Badagry West council area, reducing travel time and costs.
In a move that guarantees the programme's sustainability and quality, Hon. RIKAY further revealed that the volunteer teachers who have been facilitating the tutorials would now be formally absorbed into the council’s payroll. He also expanded the programme’s scope, confirming that the free tutorials would not be limited to the GCE examinations but would also comprehensively cater to students preparing for the UTME/JAMB and other critical external examinations, providing a holistic academic support system.
Amid widespread concerns over rising educational costs, the Chairman delivered a powerful reassurance to students in tertiary institutions. He firmly committed to the continuous payment of the council’s Bursary Scheme. “We understand how tough it is to further your education now. My government will continue to do its best to support you,” RIKAY stated, drawing applause from the audience. He coupled this policy announcement with a personal anecdote, sharing how his late father’s insistence on completing his degree at Lagos State University (LASU) was a pivotal moment in his life, cementing his belief that “I love hardwork, but not at the expense of education.”
Linking civic duty to educational benefits, Chairman RIKAY concluded with a direct call to action. He urged all students aged 18 and above to obtain their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs), declaring that the bursary programme would be tied to this civic responsibility. “No PVC, no bursary. If the government is trying to build you, you should also give back,” he asserted. In recognition of his unwavering support, the National Association of Badagry West Students (NABWEST) decorated Hon. RIKAY as its Patron, with the association's President, Comr. Boyon John, praising him as “a passionate leader who truly has the desire of young people at heart.”