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Folake Sokoya
Immediate past Governor of Ogun State, Otunba Gbenga Daniel has endorsed ‘Jaw Jaw Africa, a Victor Eniola Mark Inter tertiary Institution Debate Competition.
The Former Governor expressed happiness over the noble idea during a courtesy visit to him at Asoludero Villa, Sagamu, Ogun State by key members of Coded Media earlier on Tuesday.
“I am very excited about this project. I don’t think any who reason logically will hear about this project and not see reasons to support.”
“I will sponsor what you want me to sponsor. We have even sponsored projects not as noble as this.”
” I had done something like this in the past. In fact, i met Tunde Bakare during a debate competition. He represented Lisabi Grammar School while i represented BBHS.”
“If there is anything more than 100%, that is the support i will give this project. See me as a partner”
Mr. Daniel equally posited that while a car or a million naira might not be out of place as prizes for the winner, a job guarantee or scholarship would be more appropriate and enduring.
“I feel it would be better for the best brains in the spirit of your project to be given a good job or scholarship.”
“It depends on what tour team decides though but assuring the winner of a Public Speaking competition a job in Shell is better than a million naira that could be easily exhausted.”
“That was what we tried to do when we had the opportunity. We provided Scholarship and automatic employment for all best graduating students.”
“We must do all we can to build every sector. That is the problem we have in our dear country.”
“We cannot just focus on one sector because there is no money. If a government choose to focus on one sector for eight years, what then happens to those who were trained in other sectors.”
“Artisans earn more in England than many University graduates. My son earns about 1500 pounds per month but a plumber can earn between 5000 and 10000 pounds every month.”
Otunba Daniel equally reiterated how empowering youths with special talents in boxing helped reduce security challenges when he served as Governor.
“Part of what we did that was misinterpreted was that we picked up some of these boys that could pose security threats to our people.”
“We created an opportunity for them to train and participate in boxing competitions at Ademola Sport Complex. Those who exceed were rewarded. The likes Muhammed Ali made their mark in that field.”
He equally posited that polytechnic graduates are not of lesser quality when compared with their university counterparts.
“I think the point has been proven. When we created Ict polytechnics, we were met with heavy criticism but i was determined to ensure that Africa never loose out of this revolution.”
“Now those who finish from this polytechnics now get CCNA certifications that makes them qualified for employment anywhere in the world.”
“I have reports of many who finished from these polytechnics and now work in different countries across Africa.”
He concluded reassuring the organizers that besides his full support and sponsorship of the project, winners would have an opportunity to spend a day with him.
