In an earnest appeal for the development of human capital, Kakalistiq.com reports that Mr Adebanjo Otukomaya, the Administrative Controller of the Lekki Free Zone, has highlighted the urgent need for capacity building among the indigenes of the Ibeju Lekki Local Government.
Speaking on Thursday, May 9th, 2024, during the Mentors Platform event organized by Ibeju-Lekki Local Government for youths and students, Otukomaya emphasized the critical importance of readiness in seizing the opportunities arising from the rapid development in the area.
“The time is now to develop human capacity for the Ibeju Lekki Local Government indigenes to take advantage of the rapid growth and development springing up in the area,” Otukomaya declared. He praised the Mentors Platform initiative as one of the most beneficial developments for the local government, expressing pride in the progress and calling on residents to prepare themselves to leverage these advancements.
“This initiative is not just to distribute food to the students; it is meant to give them a sense of belonging and assure them that the entire members of the old students association are supporting their journey to ensuring academic excellence,” he added.
Otukomaya lauded the contributions of Engineer Sesan Olowa, the local government chairman, for his unwavering dedication to the community’s development. He pledged his continued support for Olowa’s transformative projects, highlighting the importance of grassroots leadership in fostering local growth. “There is no time the Chairman calls for my support to uplift the local government that I will not heed the clarion call,” Otukomaya assured, emphasizing his commitment to seeing his peers in positions of influence within the area.
Sharing his journey, Otukomaya recounted his humble beginnings in Museyo town, Ibeju-Lekki, and his determination to overcome the challenges of his early education. He detailed the hardships of travelling long distances on foot to attend Magbon Alade Grammar School, underscoring the value of resilience and determination. “Do not take for granted the opportunities that infrastructural transformation has given you,” he urged the students.
Reflecting on his academic struggles, Otukomaya spoke of his perseverance through multiple setbacks, including failing his physics exam and the subsequent efforts to secure his education. Despite these challenges, he eventually succeeded, attending the Lagos State Polytechnic and later the University of Calabar, before embarking on a successful banking career. “The tenacity, commitment, and focus helped me, and since then, I have changed jobs five times and have never applied for a job,” he revealed.
Otukomaya’s inspiring story culminated in his current role at the Lekki Free Zone Development Company, a position he earned on merit as the first Ibeju-Lekki indigene to hold such a role. He encouraged the youth to remain steadfast in their goals, regardless of a slow or difficult start. “Today, I am happy to tell you that if you have a low start or a slow start, it should not discourage you: you can get to the highest,” he concluded. “If you are serious with good character and committed to performance, you need not do any eye service to anyone to get what you want.”
Otukomaya’s words resonated deeply with the audience, painting a hopeful picture of what can be achieved through hard work, dedication, and resilience, as Ibeju Lekki looks towards a brighter, more prosperous future
