FactualTimes, a media organisation based in Kwara State has presented laptops and cash prizes to winners of Essay Competition organised to commemorate the 40th birthday anniversary of its Managing Editor, Oyewale Oyelola.
The Essay Competition with the topic- The roles of media in deepening democratic governance in Nigeria was attended by 18 students drawn from secondary schools in Ilorin South Local Government Area of Kwara State.
The event, which took place at Crystal House, Ilorin had in attendance the Chairman of Ilorin South local government, Hon Majeed Podo, Chairman, Association of Kwara Online Media Practitioners (ASKOMP), Salihu Shola Taofeek, friends in the media industry and well-wishers.
In the individual category, Lawal Fatima of Senior Secondary School, Dani-Alu, emerged first with 76 points while Aminu Boluwatife of Senior Secondary School, Opolo, clinched second position with 70 points and the duo were rewarded with one laptop each. Quozim Abdullahi came third with 65 points, receiving a cash prize of ₦20,000 and a book.
Oyewale Oyelola, the Celebrant who doubles as Publusher/Editor of FactualTimes.
In the school category, Senior Secondary School, Dani-Alu, emerged overall winner with 64 points, followed by Senior Secondary School, Opolo, which scored 60 points. Senior Secondary School, Ero-Omoh, came third with 55 points.
In his remarks, the Founding Managing Editor of FactualTimes, Oyewale Oyelola said the event was part of the organisation’s Corporate Social Responsibility and another way of building future leaders.
Oyelola recounted how he won essay competitions in Ile-Ife, Osun in 2001 and SAK National Competition in 2002, noting that the experience triggers his passion for journalism.
He implored students to prioritize their education, make necessary sacrifices to excel at young age and avoid social vices.
The Chairman of Ilorin South Local Government, Hon Majeed Podo while presenting the prizes to winners applauded Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s investment in the education sector.
According to him, Governor AbdulRazaq has constructed/rehabilitated many schools by building classrooms, halls, laboratories and provide facilities for school across the state.
Podo encouraged students to be dedicated and prepare for greater future ahead of them. His words: “During my days at the Federal Polytechnic Offa, I stated in our final year handbook that my interest in politics. I am now a Local Government Chairman. I served in the Military for 17 years and we are moving forward. ”
As a way of appreciating teachers, he provided support for teachers who accompanied students to the venue. The Chairman saluted the teachers for their diligence and dedication to duties.
In his remarks, ASKOMP Chairman, Salihu Shola Taofeek congratulated Oyelola on his 40th birthday anniversary and acknowledges his contributions to the Online Media space in Kwara State.
