The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) Southwest has commended Former Governor of Ogun State and Senator, Otunba Gbenga Daniel for his significant contributions to the empowerment of youths and the revitalization of quality and affordable education in Ogun State. In a statement signed by NANS Southwest Director of Gender, Oyegoke Yemisi, Ex Officio NANS, Comrade Olasunkanmi Aliu, and NANS Director of Media, Comrade Pitan Durojaiye, the association highlighted Daniel’s enduring impact on the community through various developmental programs initiated during his tenure as governor.
Senator Gbenga Daniel is celebrated as the most accommodating and attentive governor in the history of Ogun State’s student movement. His administration’s numerous initiatives have left a lasting legacy, greatly benefiting the youth and the wider community. Among the notable programs are:
- OGEGEP – Ogun State Employment Generation Programme: Trained individuals in vocational and agricultural activities, providing necessary facilities and employment opportunities.
- HUCAP – Human Capital Development: Offered educational scholarships for underprivileged but brilliant students to study abroad, many of whom are now contributing significantly to local development.
- Teaching Service Employment Scheme: Employed a substantial number of professionals in the teaching sector, enhancing the quality of education in public schools.
- TRACE – Ogun State Traffic Compliance and Enforcement Corps: Created jobs to improve road safety and traffic management.
- OGRUMED – Ogun State Rural Medical Services: Provided free medical treatment and surgeries.
- OSAMCA – Ogun State Agricultural and Multipurpose Credit Agency: Offered loans to support agriculture and small businesses.
- OGSEP – Ogun State Electrification Project: Improved electrification across the state.
- OGROMA – Ogun State Road Maintenance Agency: Employed local professionals to undertake road rehabilitation and construction, minimizing capital flight and generating employment.
- Sports Development: Built three international standard stadia to nurture sports talent and generate state revenue.
- Power Plant Initiative: Acquired 20 power plants to provide electricity to public facilities, though subsequent administrations have underutilized this project.
- TASUED – Tai Solarin University of Education: Created employment and improved teacher education as Nigeria’s first University of Education.
- ICT Polytechnics: Established polytechnics in Ijebu Igbo, Saapade, Igbesa, and Itoru to prepare youths for the IT age.
- Free Trade Zones: Developed Olokola FTZ, Kajola FTZ, and Ogun Quandong FTZ Igbesa to boost trade.
- Trailer Parks: Provided infrastructure to support logistics and transportation.
- Legacy Projects: Initiated projects like the Deep Sea Port, Olokola Liquefied Natural Gas (OKLNG), and Agro Cargo Airport.
NANS Southwest urges Senator Gbenga Daniel to continue his good works despite challenges from the current Ogun State administration. They specifically request:
- Increased Bursary Awards: Enhanced support for indigent students.
- Regular Meetings with Youth and Student Leaders: To foster communication and address their needs.
- Facilitation of Job Opportunities: Especially for graduates from institutions established during his tenure.
The association remains grateful for Daniel’s unwavering dedication to the advancement of education and youth empowerment in Ogun State.
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