Eulogies Late Chief Adebayo Ayoola Raji at 20th Remembrance
Engr. Kehinde Raji has paid heartfelt tribute to his late father, Chief Adebayo Ayoola Raji, during activities marking the 20th remembrance anniversary of the revered community leader, describing him as a man whose life was defined by a deep commitment to education, faith, and service to humanity.
Speaking with journalists at his residence in the GRA area of Osogbo, Engr. Raji reflected on the values his father instilled in his family and the wider community. He noted that despite not having the opportunity to attend a university, the late patriarch placed extraordinary emphasis on education and ensured that his children attained the highest academic standards.
According to him, Chief Raji strongly believed in the transformative power of education and made it a priority for his children to achieve advanced academic qualifications, including Master’s and PhD degrees.
He further described the late Bobaseye of Isolo Land as a devout and God-fearing individual who laid a strong spiritual and moral foundation for his family, while also living a life characterised by fairness, compassion, and philanthropy.
Engr. Raji explained that the family has continued to sustain his father’s legacy through a series of empowerment and community development initiatives coordinated under the ARAJ Movement.
He disclosed that since 2013, the organisation has impacted no fewer than 50,000 individuals through various intervention programmes. A significant part of the initiative includes microcredit grants designed to support small businesses and promote economic stability among beneficiaries.
Beyond financial empowerment, the movement also invests heavily in education and healthcare support. Engr. Raji revealed that over 5,200 students benefit annually from school fee assistance provided through the initiative, while several residents have been enrolled in the Osun State Health Insurance Scheme through sponsorship by the foundation.
Additionally, the organisation operates grassroots economic empowerment programmes, including market outreach initiatives targeted at small-scale traders.
He explained that the programme involves visiting local markets to assess traders’ needs and providing financial grants of up to ₦30,000 to support and expand their businesses.
According to him, the projects established in memory of his father are designed to be sustainable and will continue for generations.
Speaking on the subject of politics, Engr. Raji clarified that although he recognises the importance of political engagement in societal development, he currently has no immediate intention of venturing into active politics.
He noted that politics manifests in various forms within society, from family structures to religious and community organisations. However, he stated that he is not affiliated with any political party and does not participate in ward-level political meetings.
Despite this, he maintains cordial relationships with several politicians whom he believes possess the capacity to deliver meaningful development if given the opportunity.
He expressed optimism about the future of Osun State, emphasising the need for leadership that prioritises grassroots development and the welfare of the people.
According to him, with the right leadership and commitment to the people, Osun State has the potential to achieve greater progress and prosperity.
