The programme, held between July 28 and July 30, 2026, at the Owu Palace in Abeokuta, was organised by the Fourth Coronation Anniversary Planning Committee, sponsored by the Olowu Hope Initiative (OHI) and implemented by the Junior Chamber International (JCI) Rockcity.
The training programme formed part of the week-long activities commemorating the monarch’s fourth year on the throne and provided participants with practical knowledge in liquid soap production, digital photography, bead making and digital marketing.
Statistics released by the organisers showed that women constituted about 90 per cent of the beneficiaries, while youths accounted for approximately 75 per cent of the participants, underscoring the initiative’s emphasis on empowering young people and women within the community.
One of the major highlights of the programme was the practical demonstration of the newly acquired skills, with participants showcasing various products, including liquid soap and beaded items, as evidence of the effectiveness of the training.
The event was attended by the queen, Olori Adijat Matemilola, members of the Owu traditional council and prominent members of JCI, including the 2021 National President of JCI Nigeria, JCI Senator Abiola Olorunnisola, 2017 Vice President of JCI Rockcity, JCI Senator Seun Balogun, the 2025 President of JCI Rockcity, Ambassador Seun Adebayo and the 2026 JCI Nigeria Director of Communications, JCIN Ambassador Eniola Adesanya.
Speaking at the event, President of JCI Rockcity JCIN Ambassador Olalekan Aroyehun said the organisation remained committed to implementing projects capable of transforming lives and strengthening communities.
He said, “The Owu Kingdom has consistently demonstrated a strong commitment to grassroots development and human capital advancement. This partnership reflects our shared vision of creating sustainable opportunities that will improve the lives of residents.”
Also Speaking, the Director of Skills Development of JCI Rockcity, Oluwadamilare Oladotun, described the initiative as part of the organisation’s efforts to promote sustainable development through entrepreneurship and capacity-building programmes.
In another significant development, JCI Rockcity facilitated discussions with the National Directorate of Employment (NDE), the Industrial Training Fund (ITF) and the Ogun State Technical and Vocational Education Board on the establishment of a liaison office within the Owu Kingdom.
The proposed office is expected to improve access to government-backed employment opportunities, entrepreneurship schemes and empowerment programmes for residents of the kingdom and neighbouring communities.
At the end of the training, participants received certificates of participation, while facilitators were honoured with awards in recognition of their contributions to the successful implementation of the programme.
