On the 31st of August, 2024, the Ikorodu Division Peace Initiative Limited (IDPIL) held its 3rd Annual Scholarship and Bursary Award presentation at a grand ceremony attended by dignitaries, traditional rulers, parents, and students.
The event, which took place at Ikorodu Ultra Modern Townhall, Lagos State, was a celebration of educational excellence and a reaffirmation of IDPIL’s commitment to the growth and development of Ikorodu Division through its SHEER Development Agenda, which focuses on Security, Health, Education, Environment, and Road Rehabilitation.
He noted that this initiative is already yielding positive results, as evidenced by the outstanding academic performances of beneficiaries across various higher institutions in Nigeria.
“For the third consecutive year, the Ikorodu Division Peace Initiative (IDPIL) has demonstrated its unwavering commitment to the educational development of our youth. Today, we celebrate not just the financial awards but the potential of the next generation of leaders,” Abiru stated.
He emphasized the importance of education as a cornerstone for societal growth and highlighted IDPIL’s ongoing dedication to the SHEER Development Agenda.
Abiru also revealed that over N500 million has been invested in local security initiatives, resulting in a significant reduction in crime rates, including cult clashes, land-grabbing activities, and armed robbery cases.
During the event, the IDPIL utilized the ceremony to once again unveil the new identity of its Local Joint Task Force (LJTF) as “Idagiri-Ekun,” symbolised by the Black Jaguar.
This rebranding reflects the strategic and tactical nature of the force’s operations in maintaining peace and security within Ikorodu Division.
“Our decision to rebrand the LJTF as ‘Idagiri-Ekun’ reflects its resolve and agility in combating criminal elements,” Abiru added, stressing the force’s continued collaboration with state-owned security agencies to ensure the safety and well-being of all residents.
Further affirming IDPIL’s commitment to comprehensive community development, Abiru outlined several recent projects, including the ground-breaking ceremony for the multi-billion Naira Adewunmi Ogunsanya Renal Centre at the General Hospital, Ikorodu.
He also highlighted contributions such as the donation of a 40 KVA generator and air conditioners to the Nigerian Passport Office in Igbogbo, the installation of street lights in Imota, and the renovation of a historic primary school in Oreta.
The Distinguished Guest of Honour, Mr. Akintunde Sawyerr, Managing Director and CEO of the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFund), applauded the IDPIL for its substantial investment in the education sector and introduced the students to the Federal Government’s student loan programme, encouraging them to leverage this opportunity to further their education.
Hon. Chief (Mrs.) Adebimpe Akinsola, Chairman of the IDPIL Scholarship and Bursary Award Committee, in her 
speech, celebrated the achievements of the students, noting that education is a powerful tool for societal transformation.
She praised the recipients for their academic excellence and encouraged them to continue striving for greatness, emphasizing that education opens doors to numerous opportunities.
“The IDPIL Scholarship and Bursary Award has been instrumental in shaping the future of our youth, enabling them to focus on their studies without the burden of financial constraints,” Akinsola said.
“We are immensely proud of their achievements and look forward to seeing them excel in their chosen careers.”High Chief Adewunmi Ogunsanya, SAN, Chairman of the IDPIL Board of Trustees, in his brief remarks, reiterated the importance of education as a vital element for societal advancement.
He announced that next year’s bursary fund would be increased to N50 million, demonstrating IDPIL’s ongoing commitment to expanding educational opportunities for the youth of Ikorodu Division.
“The future of this Division lies in your hands,” Ogunsanya told the students. “Take your studies seriously and make us proud, for you are the leaders of tomorrow.”
Highlight of the ceremony was the presentation of the Bursary 1 Award to 150 students and the Bursary 2 Award to 88 students.
These awards, designed to alleviate the financial burdens of education, have been a beacon of hope for many underprivileged yet talented students in Ikorodu Division.
Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, Adeyemi Eniola Serah, a recipient of the N200,000 scholarship award, expressed her profound gratitude to IDPIL, stating that the financial support would significantly aid her in her academic pursuits.
She assured that the assistance provided would be fully utilized to achieve their educational dreams.
Also, Ololade Eniola Akinsola received support of 100 thousand naira, while Abdulazeez Talabi Jamaldeen received support of 50 thousand naira.
Mr. F.O. Lasisi, Chairman of the Occasion, in his goodwill message, commended IDPIL for its unwavering support for education and urged other well-meaning individuals and organisations to emulate the Initiative’s efforts.
Traditional rulers, including HRM Oba Basiru Aremu Sotonwa, the Sekumade of Ipakodo, and HRM Oba Semiudeen Orimadegun Kasali, Adeboruwa of Igbogbo Kingdom, HRM Oba Abdulganiyu Adekoyejo Omotayo, Fidimolu of Elepe Kingdom, HRM, Oba Adeoriyomi Abdul-Akeem Oyebo, The Obateru Of Egbin Kingdom among others, graced the occasion, offering their blessings and support to IDPIL’s initiatives.
Otunba Amid Adekunle Oduborisa, Chairman of the IDPIL Fundraising Committee, called on public-spirited individuals and organisations to support IDPIL’s various community development projects through donations.
Speaking on behalf of the Royal Fathers present, the Ayangbure of Ikorodu Kingdom, Oba Kabiru Adewale Shotobi, commended the Ikorodu Division Peace Initiative for their consistent efforts in supporting the educational sector each year.
He highlighted the organisation’s dedication to fostering academic growth and providing essential resources for the betterment of the community’s youth.
Oba Kabiru Adewale Shotobi also acknowledged the broader impact of the Ikorodu Division Peace Initiative, noting the key role they have played in transforming various aspects of the community.
Beyond education, he praised the organisation for its involvement in other areas that contribute to the overall development and well-being of the Ikorodu Division.
The ceremony concluded with the presentation of certificates to the LJTF personnel who recently completed their training at the Police College in Ikeja, Lagos.
The 2024 edition of the Annual Scholarship and Bursary Award presentation in all reflected IDPIL’s commitment to educational development and community upliftment remained evident. The Initiative’s efforts continue to inspire hope and foster growth in Ikorodu Division, paving the way for a brighter future.
