Sanwo-Olu, wife urge boys to become leaders of change

By Oyebola Owolabi

Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and his wife, Dr. Ibijoke, have inspired young boys to become change agents, underscoring the need to nurture the next generation of leaders capable of driving meaningful societal change.

The governor was addressing over 250 boys from public and private schools during the opening of a three-day residential workshop of the Boy-Child Initiative, organised by the Office of the First Lady.

The theme was ‘Awakening the Boy Child towards becoming a Change Agent’.

According to him, the workshop will further empower the boys to become proactive leaders in their communities.

Governor Sanwo-Olu, who highlighted the critical role of boys in the future of Lagos and Nigeria, urged them to embrace responsibility, integrity, and community service.

He added: “Leadership is not about positions or titles, but about making a positive impact and inspiring others. We are here to equip you with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to become change agents who can tackle the challenges of today and tomorrow.”

The governor’s wife explained that the workshop is to raise awareness on the rights and welfare of the boy-child. She added that the initiative will also promote educational opportunities for male children, especially the indigent, and facilitate the rehabilitation of the vulnerable boy-child through referrals.

While hoping to build a new generation of transformed male children who will contribute positively to the society, the First Lady thanked the governor for sharing his personal childhood experience with the boys.

Mrs. Sanwo-Olu noted that by addressing the specific needs and challenges of the boy-child, ‘we can foster a more balanced and effective approach to combatting societal ills’.

She added: “We all must live with the consciousness that our boys are not just the future leaders, but also leaders of today, innovators, and pillars of our communities.

“Early training and proper grooming are essential for their development, ensuring they grow into responsible and enlightened adults. This continuous enlightenment programme is designed to instill values, resilience, and a sense of purpose in our boys, preparing them for the diverse challenges of the 21st century.”

One of the facilitators, Asst. Commandant-General of the Nigeria Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Dr Ngozi Madubuike, advised the boys to join anti-drug abuse clubs and associations like WADA Club, Boys Scout, Sports Group, etc.

Speaking on ‘The Role of Boys in Combating the Menace of Drug Abuse’, Dr Madubuike urged the boys to resist peer pressure, be assertive and have a mind of their own.

“Seek medical help when necessary; avoid self-medication; keep a well-balanced life; stand up for others; be an advocate of peace, avoid bullying, and be responsible young boys,” she added.

The workshop ends today and the boys will engage in various team-building exercises, leadership challenges, and community projects, aimed at reinforcing the lessons learned and fostering a spirit of collaboration and innovation.

 

 

Read Previous

‘Kurunmi to foster cultural rebirth, reorientation’

Read Next

‘Women must embrace societal responsibilities’

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Most Popular