The Akoko Youth Forum (AYF), Odo Akoko Chapter, has celebrated its first 150 days in office while commemorating the fifth anniversary of the passing of its founder, Temitope Balogun Joshua, with a series of empowerment and community development initiatives across Akoko land.
The event, held on Thursday at the T.B. Joshua Mission House in Agbaluku, Arigidi Akoko, brought together traditional rulers, political leaders, community stakeholders, youths, widows, students and other dignitaries from across the region.
The programme commenced with an opening prayer by a traditional ruler, followed by the introduction of dignitaries on the high table.
In his address, AYF President, Pius Kole Alex, highlighted the significance of the gathering, noting that it was organized to sustain the legacy of the late Prophet T.B. Joshua and to reflect on the achievements recorded by the current administration within its first 150 days in office.
According to him, the forum has undertaken several initiatives, including visits to traditional rulers and security agencies across Akoko and the Ondo State capital, the acquisition of a public address system for official activities, and the empowerment of local chapters through financial support.
He also disclosed that the forum recently secured an office space in Akoko North East Local Government, donated by the council chairman, Alhaji Muhammed Mutiu Olawale “Babanel,” to serve as the operational headquarters for AYF activities in the area.
Alex further recalled the forum’s participation in protests against insecurity in Akoko South-East, emphasizing AYF’s commitment to addressing challenges affecting the people.
The AYF president expressed appreciation to the Governor of Ondo State, Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, for his leadership, and also commended Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo for his contributions to the development of Akoko communities.
He equally acknowledged the support of Evelyn Joshua for sustaining the legacy of the late cleric and for supporting the programme.
Other leaders recognized during the event included Adegboyega Adefarati, Ife Ehindero, and Jide Ipinsagba, as well as local government chairmen and members of the Ondo State House of Assembly from the Akoko area.
As part of activities marking the celebration, participants embarked on a solidarity walk from Jubilee Park to the Arigidi Mission House to symbolize unity and continuity of the forum’s vision.
The forum also empowered 50 widows from various communities across Akoko land with cash and material support, while bursary awards were presented to 20 indigent but academically outstanding students to assist them in pursuing their education.
A posthumous Award of Excellence was presented to the late Prophet T.B. Joshua in recognition of his enduring legacy of service, faith and commitment to the development of Akoko land. Another posthumous award was conferred on the late Ambassador Mayowa Adojutelegan, popularly known as Darkmayor, for his contributions to youth development and community advancement.
In a communiqué issued at the end of the programme, AYF reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining the culture of service, empowerment and youth development established by its founder.
The forum also pledged to continue promoting unity, peace and progress across Akoko land, irrespective of political, religious or communal differences.
The event concluded with a closing prayer led by Rev. Adeosun and a renewed call on Akoko youths and stakeholders to support initiatives aimed at community development and youth empowerment.
