In a passionate drive to uplift students and enhance the standard of education, the National Association of Ikorodu Division Students (NAIDS-NATIONAL), led by Comrade Ogunbowale Olatayo Bodunrin, has commenced a transformative three-day outreach across secondary schools in the Ikorodu Division.
Themed “Reshaping Gen Z Minds Towards a Brighter and More Insightful Future,” the initiative kicked off on July 7, 2025, with visits to United Senior High School, Ikorodu, and Majidun Senior High School.
During the sessions, NAIDS distributed educational materials such as notebooks, biros, and pencils to hundreds of students—targeting both boys and girls—demonstrating the association’s commitment to academic support and equal opportunity.
Speaking at the flag-off, Comrade Ogunbowale underscored the urgent need to reorient the mindset of today’s youth.
He stressed that the outreach was born out of the rising concerns about desperation among young people in their search for quick success.
Explaining life through a psychological framework, he described three critical identity stages: the Ideal Self, the Glass Self, and the Real Self.
He urged students to identify where they stand and strive to align with their authentic potential.
Ogunbowale did not shy away from addressing pressing issues like internet fraud, ritual practices, betting, and the rise of transactional relationships among youths.
“These shortcuts promise fast results but leave long-term damage,” he warned. “We’re here to redirect attention to purpose, values, and long-term success.”
He also made a heartfelt appeal to government agencies and development partners, urging them to prioritize educational and mindset-shifting programs over mere entertainment.
“Let’s feed our youth with content that challenges, reforms, and inspires,” he added.
Mr. Hassan Bashiru Oluwakemi, one of the facilitators, emphasized that education must transcend mere academic results.
“Schooling should nurture creative thinking, self-reliance, and goal-driven mindsets,” he said.
He encouraged students to combine formal education with skill acquisition. “Vocational skills, tech knowledge, and artistic creativity can give today’s youth the edge they need to thrive,” he added, urging them to see beyond grades and aim for total development.
Another inspiring moment came from facilitator Patricia Okosodo, who shared her story of resilience, determination, and personal growth.
Losing her father at age 12 and facing financial hardship, she took on menial jobs at 17 just to stay afloat.
“Your background must not define your future,” she told the students. “I started reading books, listening to mentors, and slowly reshaped my path.”
Her powerful message centred on personal responsibility, self-awareness, and the courage to walk away from toxic peer influence.
“Cut off any friend who distracts you from your goals,” she charged. “And girls, don’t wait for a man to buy you things—stand on your own!”
Comrade Stephen, a guest speaker and representative of the Children, Youth and Women Empowerment Initiative (ChiYoWo), lamented the decline in educational values among Gen Z students due to their obsession with social media trends. “You should be building your mind, not just your TikTok,” he stated firmly.
He warned about the grip of social vices like cybercrime, prostitution, and substance abuse. “These trends are destroying the essence of our youth,” he said. “You want to go viral, be known, but you don’t want to work. That mindset is what we’re here to change.”
Stephen didn’t mince words as he called out deception and internet fraud, warning that shortcuts often lead to deep regret. “The sweat you take from someone in fraud will never bring lasting peace,” he cautioned.
He concluded with a resounding call for students to choose the path of hard work, academic excellence, and moral integrity. “Say no to fascism, say no to drugs, say no to immorality. Choose light over darkness.”
The outreach featured engaging sessions where students were encouraged to dream, reflect, and commit to the steps needed to achieve their goals.
NAIDS-NATIONAL reiterated its dedication to promoting education and empowering students throughout the division. In appreciation of their steadfast support, both speakers were honoured with special recognition awards.
The outreach continues over the next two days, reaching secondary schools across Ijede, Igbogbo/Baiyeku, Ikorodu North, Ikorodu West, and Imota LCDAs. Organizers hope to impact hundreds more students through mentorship, moral guidance, and learning materials.
This initiative is part of NAIDS-NATIONAL’s broader agenda to champion academic excellence, shape future leaders, and strengthen educational structures in Ikorodu Division.
INN-HOUSE☆ 