A prominent APC chieftain and philanthropist in the Ifelodun, Boripe, and Odo-Otin Federal Constituency, Hon. Bello Adegboyega Basheer (BABS), has been inaugurated as the patron of the JAF Vocational Training Centre. He described the centre as an institution that not only educates hands but also empowers hearts and builds futures.
BABS expressed gratitude to the management for deeming him worthy of the role, stating that it is not just a title but a trust — a call to support, inspire, and serve. He humbly accepted the responsibility.
Speaking at the maiden matriculation ceremony of the centre, the former General Manager of Osun Public Procurement emphasized that skill acquisition is no longer a luxury but a necessity. According to him, the youth need more than degrees — they need tools to create, build, solve problems, and be self-reliant.
“Vocational training centres like JAF are not just relevant; they are revolutionary. Training young men and women to become tailors, welders, fashion designers, digital experts, electricians, and entrepreneurs is a form of nation-building. They are being given identity, dignity, and hope — and that is a cause I will always support,” he said.
Congratulating the matriculating students, the Inisa-born philanthropist urged them to embrace this defining moment with commitment, discipline, and passion. He charged them never to feel inferior for choosing vocational training, declaring that skills are the currency of the future and that hands that can create will always be respected.
BABS also commended the management, staff, and instructors of the centre for their tireless efforts in shaping lives. He assured them that their impact on the youth will yield lasting rewards.
“As your newly inaugurated patron, I pledge my full support for the growth of this centre. I will be an ambassador of your vision and will work to ensure that more young people in Ikirun and beyond benefit from this initiative,” he added.
Earlier in his remarks, the founder of the centre, Alh. Ibraheem Habeeb Temitope, popularly known as Alfa Jeje Agba, described the event as a golden day in the history of the Jeje Agba Foundation. He said the matriculation marked the fulfillment of a vision to empower, uplift, and transform lives through practical, life-changing vocational training.
He recalled that the idea for the centre was born out of a burden to see young men and women step into the future equipped not only with certificates but with skills, confidence, and purpose.
“This centre was established to address youth unemployment, promote self-reliance, and restore dignity to vocational and technical education. To our matriculating students, I congratulate you for choosing skills over shortcuts, training over idleness, and a brighter future over excuses,” he said.
In his remarks, the Osun State Director of the National Directorate of Employment (NDE), Mr. Olanrewaju Abiodun, commended the founder and management for their resilience and commitment to youth development. He described the centre as a transformative initiative that aligns with the goals of the NDE in Osun State.
He pledged collaboration between the NDE and JAF Vocational Centre to ensure its smooth operation and to facilitate government support in the form of equipment and student aid.
Mr. Abiodun also highlighted NDE’s ongoing programs in agriculture, vocational training, business development, and entrepreneurship, implemented in phases across the state.
In their separate remarks, the representative of NIPU, Dr. Lawal, and the Commissioner for Youth (represented by the Special Assistant to the Governor on Youth Affairs, Hon. Aare Abdulmajeed Oyeniyi), applauded the founder and instructors for their dedication to empowering young people with real-life skills. They urged the students to remain focused and committed.
They noted, “This opportunity is golden and must not be wasted. In today’s world, education without skills offers limited value. What you are learning here will enable you to be self-reliant and productive.”
Notable dignitaries at the event included film producer and actor Azeez Adeniran (popularly known as Babanla), former Ede South Local Government Chairman Hon. Lukman Afolabi, Saleem FM Marketing Manager Mr. Habeeb Olawuyi, NIPU members, and others.