The lawmaker representing Epe Federal Constituency, Hon. Wale Raji, has formally agreed to donate the Agbowa Vocational Centre to the Industrial Training Fund (ITF) for immediate takeoff as a technical skills hub.
EpeInsights gathered that the decision followed an inspection visit by the Director General of the ITF, Dr. Afiz Oluwatoyin Ogun, who was received in Agbowa, Ikosi-Ejinrin LCDA, by Rep. Raji and community stakeholders.
The visit was to assess the readiness of the facility for integration into the federal government’s ongoing Skill-Up Artisans (SUPA) initiative under President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
Describing the development as a “turning point for grassroots empowerment,” Rep. Raji lauded the speed and commitment of the ITF leadership. “We spoke only days ago in Abuja, and today, the DG is here for an assessment. That kind of responsiveness is rare and commendable,” he said.
The Agbowa centre, initially facilitated by Rep. Raji as a constituency project, is a purpose-built training complex designed to serve young Nigerians seeking vocational and technical skills.
According to the lawmaker, it will also support existing artisans looking to upskill and remain competitive in today’s dynamic labour market.
“This donation aligns fully with Mr. President’s vision. With this kind of collaboration, the Renewed Hope Agenda is not just a slogan, we’re seeing it take root,” Raji added.
During the tour, ITF’s Dr. Ogun expressed admiration for the quality and strategic potential of the facility. “We’ve searched across the country for facilities like this. This one stands out not just because of the structure but because of the intention behind it,” he said.
He described the center as a model hub for skills acquisition and economic productivity.
Dr. Ogun further urged other lawmakers and stakeholders nationwide to emulate Rep. Raji by reviving and repurposing existing training centers for national development.
“We’re ready to partner, but we need leaders who are ready to act. What we see here today is exemplary,” he stated.Chairman of the Wale Raji Think-Tank Committee, also praised the collaborative efforts, emphasizing the transformational potential of the facility for youth across Ikosi-Ejinrin and beyond.
Chairman of the Wale Raji Think-Tank Committee, Otunba Nuru Yusuf, also praised the collaborative efforts, emphasizing the transformational potential of the facility for youth across Ikosi-Ejinrin and beyond.
With mutual agreement in place and documentation underway, the Agbowa Vocational Center is expected to begin operations under ITF management in the coming weeks , a milestone that could mark the beginning of a new era for skills development in the region.
This initiative represents not only a leap forward for Epe’s youth but a significant contribution to the national drive toward sustainable job creation and economic self-reliance.
