Offa, Kwara State, hosted a historic celebration of academic achievement and youth empowerment during the inaugural Eluku Omo Adugbo Annual Symposium 2025 , organised in partnership with the ABS Foundation. The event underscored the town's commitment to education, patriotism, and community development.

Aimed at recognising scholarly excellence and fostering local talent, the symposium welcomed dignitaries, scholars, political leaders, artisans, student representatives, and members of the public. Convener Comr. Salahudeen A. Lukman (Eluku Omo Adugbo), a proud alumnus of public institutions including St. James LGEA School, Offa; Ansar Ud Deen College, Offa; Kwara Polytechnic, Ilorin; Kaduna Polytechnic; Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria; and LAUTECH, Ogbomoso, expressed pride in showcasing public school students' accomplishments.

A key highlight was the Eluku Omo Adugbo Education Support Initiative , which awarded bursaries to 20 primary school pupils (N10,000 each), 20 secondary students (N15,000 each), and outstanding local students from Federal Polytechnic, Offa, and Kwara State College of Health Technology, Offa (N50,000 each). The initiative was funded by Engr. Bolakale Kawu Dan'iya of Ilorin Emirate.

Associations with at least five delegates also received transport allowances as a token of appreciation for their participation. The symposium reflects growing private-sector collaboration in supporting education and youth development in Kwara.

In his keynote message, Comr. Salahudeen paid glowing tribute to His Excellency, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki (CON) for his "fatherly role, moral guidance, and financial support" that ensured the success of the program. "Your Excellency's steadfast support transformed this vision into a celebrated reality," he stated.

The intellectual tone of the symposium was set by a thought-provoking keynote presentation delivered on the thematic topic : Galvanizing Economic and Political Stake of Offa in Contemporary Kwara and Nigeria political Landscape by Prof. Mahmud Babatunde Ajeigbe, while Barr. Olusegun Olawoyin gave a compelling discussion of the thematic topic. Distinguished personalities in attendance included Hon. Prof. Ali Ahmad, Hon. Chief AbdulRazaq Lawal (Oluomo of Atanda Land), and Mr. Saheed Lawal representing QS Muiyeen Okunlola of the MOK Foundation and Engr BolaKale Kawu Agaka who sponsor the bursary award ably represented.

The event also enjoyed strong representation from the political class, including the Offa PDP Elders Forum led by Alh. Raheem Idera, with members such as Hon. Muraina Ayantola, Alh. Mako, Hon. Lasun Olarinoye, Alh. Lukman Alayande, and Hon. Abdulfatai Shittu Osawe. Also present were the PDP LG Executive, led by Hon. Jide Jatto, all 12 PDP Ward Chairmen, youth leaders, women leaders, and forum coordinators.

The planning and coordination, described as seamless and effective, was spearheaded by Hon. Ajibade Adeyinka Ejaco, whose leadership ensured the success of the event.

In a touching moment, Dr. O. S. Ope, watching the event live on Facebook from the Turkish Republic of Cyprus, made a spontaneous cash prize donation to a patriotic pupil seen placing his hand firmly on his chest during the National Anthem—an act that moved many in attendance.

The symposium also drew solidarity from national youth and student leaders, including Comr. and Mrs. Akoshile Mukthar (Vice President, North Central, NYCN), Senior Comr. Adio Odunjo Orlando, and Comr. Suleiman (representing the NANS President). The Offa Comrades Community also stood out, with the presence of Comr. Omuiyadun Hamed Yah Omuz, PA to the Deputy Senate Leader.

In his closing remarks, Comr. Salahudeen reiterated his unwavering commitment to the growth of Offa, Kwara State, and Nigeria:

"Together, we shall continue to break new grounds and build legacies of pride and purpose. This is just the beginning of a greater movement to uplift our people."