The 3rd edition of Rep Babajimi Benson’s iCARE LECTURE SERIES, themed ‘FOSTERING LEADERSHIP AT THE GRASSROOTS,’ convened on Saturday, April 27th, 2024, at the prestigious Regal Hall situated on Olu-Oodo Road in Ikorodu, Lagos.
The event aimed to empower and educate the youth populace across the division, preparing them for active participation in governance, especially with the forthcoming local government elections slated for 2025.
Distinguished personalities graced the occasion, including Senator Adeseye Ogunlewe, former Minister of Works, Otunba Amid Adekunle Oduborisa, Funmi Basorun, and Adeola Rotinwa, among others.
Additionally, council chairmen from the division, including Bldr Sesan Daini, Executive Chairman of Igbogbo Baiyeku LCDA, Prince Wasiu Kunle-Agoro, Executive Chairman of Imota LCDA, and Hon. Motunrayo Gbadebo-Alogba, Executive Chairman of Ijede LCDA graced the program.
From the jump, Mr. Peju Akinyemi, CEO of Ikorodu OGA Radio, took center stage as one of the program’s discussants, engaging the audience with fervor, Akinyemi delved into the critical role of fostering leadership at the grassroots level, emphasizing the intrinsic connection between leadership and democracy.
Akinyemi elucidated on the essence of democracy, detailing its alignment with economic goals and national objectives.
He explained the importance of inclusive governance and community participation in driving sustainable development, urging attendees to embrace their roles as catalysts for positive change within their communities.
In a follow-up, Mayor Deen Sanwo-Ola, Director-General of the iCare Foundation, emerged as another prominent discussant, shedding light on the fundamental question, “Why do you want to lead?”
Sanwo-Ola commended Representative Babajimi Benson for his dedication to enhancing youth leadership training, highlighting the importance of cultivating leadership capabilities beyond monetary motivations.
He analyses the imperative for aspiring leaders to prioritize service to others as a qualifier for leadership roles, stressing that leadership transcends personal ambition and monetary gain, advocating for a paradigm shift towards service-oriented leadership grounded in academic excellence and ethical conduct.
Sanwo-Ola concluded by appealing to youths in attendance to remain cognizant of their environment and to uphold a sterling reputation, emphasizing the profound societal impact of ethical leadership.
Ikorodu Federal Lawmaker, Rep. Babajimi Benson, the brain behind the initiative, articulated the importance of mentorship in youth development, underscoring the need for the younger generation to equip themselves with requisite knowledge and experience.
Speaking at the event, Rep. Benson, who’s also the chairman, of the House Committee on Defence explained the critical need for mentorship to propel youths towards success in their diverse endeavours.
Highlighting the significance of the program, Rep Benson reiterated the importance of equipping the younger generation with the necessary tools and guidance to navigate the complexities of modern-day challenges.
He stated that the establishment of such initiatives is crucial to laying the foundation for a prosperous and vibrant future for Nigeria.
With poised confidence in the vision of the present administration, Rep. Benson expressed optimism about Nigeria’s potential for greatness.
He emphasized the imperative for youths to seize the available opportunities by arming themselves with the requisite knowledge and experience.
Furthermore in his speech, he lamented the missed opportunities of his own youth, expressing a wish to relive those moments in the current era of abundant possibilities.
“As the Nigerian economy shows signs of improvement, our youths must adopt strategic positioning to leverage the evolving landscape. Embracing emerging opportunities and cultivating a mindset of innovation and adaptability” Rep. Benson told Ikorodu News Network (INN)
Guest speaker, Olakunle Soriyan, founder of Global Thought Leader, shared practical steps for discovering one’s life purpose, advocating for the cultivation of robust networks and mentorship relationships over a mere pursuit of wealth.
Drawing from his own experiences, Soriyan outlined a practical approach for attendees to uncover their life’s purpose, emphasising the importance of reading books, seeking guidance from reputable mentors, and maintaining forward momentum despite challenges.
Soriyan’s message resonated strongly with the audience, who hung onto his every word in eager anticipation of guidance and direction.
In a notable revelation, Soriyan challenged the conventional pursuit of monetary wealth, asserting that true wealth lies in one’s network and relationships.
He urged youths not to fixate solely on financial gains but to prioritize building meaningful connections that open doors to endless opportunities.
Soriyan pinpointed the pivotal role of mentors in expanding one’s horizons and providing invaluable insights.
“Don’t chase money, chase power,” Soriyan declared, urging attendees to prioritize knowledge acquisition and personal growth over material wealth.
Furthermore, he encouraged them to be proactive in seeking guidance and to ask probing questions that broaden their perspectives, asserting that mentors serve as catalysts for personal and professional development, offering unique angles and pathways to success.
Also reflecting on the dynamics of association, Soriyan explained the significance of surrounding oneself with individuals who foster peace, relief, and progress.
He cautioned against maintaining toxic relationships or affiliations that hinder personal growth and development.
Soriyan’s admonition to “jettison” negative influences struck a chord with attendees, prompting introspection and a commitment to nurturing positive associations.
Dr Abiodun Fatai-Abatan, Dean of Student Affairs at Lagos State University (LASU), delved into the significance of politics in national development, urging youths to discard stereotypes and engage actively in political processes.
Abatan delivered a thought-provoking presentation on the role of politics in reshaping the nation’s framework at a recent public event.
In his presentation, Dr Fatai-Abatan dissected prevailing perceptions of politics, urging viable youths to engage with the political sphere as a means of effecting positive change, challenging the commonly-held belief that politics is inherently corrupt, and explaining the need for a paradigm shift to encourage youths to participate actively in political processes.
He argued that disengagement from politics only perpetuates existing problems, highlighting the potential for young, motivated individuals to drive meaningful reform and progress.
Commending the efforts of Representative Babajimi Benson, Dr. Fatai-Abatan acknowledged the significance of initiatives such as the iCARE LECTURE SERIES in fostering youth engagement and empowerment.
Despite Rep. Benson’s demanding responsibilities to his constituents, Dr. Fatai-Abatan applauded his commitment to organizing programs that inspire and educate the youth on leadership and civic participation.
Throughout the event, attendees were enlightened on various facets of leadership, mentorship, and civic engagement, with a focus on nurturing competent and ethical leaders at the grassroots level.
A session for questions and answers was subsequently presented for participants to clear doubts about the approach to learning leadership at the grassroots level.
The participants further applauded Rep Babajimi Benson’s commitment to youth empowerment and community development which resonated strongly.
INN-HOUSE☆ 