A major empowerment initiative aimed at boosting youth and women development across Osun West Senatorial District was held on Thursday, November 20, 2025, as Chief (Dr.) Peter Ogundeji popularly known as Apata distributed vocational equipment to 100 beneficiaries and sponsored the training of another 150 individuals.
During the event at Legacy Hall, Ola, Ejigbo local government, Ogundeji said that the programme was designed “to shape the destiny of our communities through empowerment, opportunity, and hope,” noting that the gesture marked part of activities commemorating his 40th birthday. He stated that “to whom much is given, much is expected,” adding that he chose to celebrate by giving back to the society that contributed to his growth.
The event formed a major highlight of activities marking the 40th birthday of Dr. Peter Ogundeji.
The initiative, an arm of the Apata Cares Foundation under the APATA/Ileri-Oluwa Empowerment Apprenticeship Programme, focuses on equipping youths with skills to eradicate joblessness. “Idle hands are the devil’s workshop,” Ogundeji said, stressing that practical empowerment remains the strongest tool against social vices.
Ogundeji disclosed that more than 100 youths enrolled in apprenticeship training earlier in 2024 had successfully completed their programmes. “Today, we are presenting them with high-quality apprenticeship equipment — sewing machines, hair dryers, leather-making machines, building tools, desktop computers,” he said, describing the items as “seeds of prosperity.”
He further announced the enrollment of another 150 beneficiaries whose training fees would be “fully funded so that no dream is silenced by financial difficulty.” While addressing the graduands, he encouraged them to be “ambassadors of empowerment” and to uplift others through their work.
During an interview with Insight Media correspondent, the Apex Leader of Ejigbo Local Government, Senator Mudashiru Oyetunde Husain, commended Ogundeji, describing him as “a pillar in this local government.”
Husain emphasized that the philanthropist had been empowering people long before any political involvement. “I don’t think he is doing it because of future aspirations; he is doing it from a genuine desire to uplift the less privileged,” he noted.
One of the beneficiaries at the event, Fayanjuola Eunice, said she was grateful, especially during this current economic hardship. “I can now stand on my own and be self-employed,” she said. She prayed for divine blessings for Ogundeji.
Another beneficiary, Oyeniyi Lateefat, who trained as a tailor, also expressed her excitement as she promised to make the best use of the equipment received and not sell it. “It is not easy for someone to do this in times like this. I say a big thank you,” she appreciated.
Ogundeji thanked traditional leaders, party executives, women and youth groups, and other stakeholders for their continuous support, stating that empowerment remains an investment in the strength and future of the people.
The event, which drew dignitaries and community leaders from across Osun West, ended with a renewed call for unity, collaboration, and resilience in building a more prosperous district.
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