The National Association of Ikorodu Division Students (NAIDS National) continued its multi-day school outreach across the Ikorodu Division with the second leg of its enlightening campaign, targeting Gen Z students with a powerful message of purpose, self-awareness, and future-readiness.
Held on Tuesday, July 8, 2025, the Day Two engagement visited Elepe Senior High School, Igbogbo, and Luwasa Senior High School, Ijede, with the theme: “Reshaping Gen Z Minds Towards a Brighter and More Insightful Future.”
The outreach, which commenced the previous day, forms part of NAIDS National’s broader commitment to youth empowerment and character formation.
The initiative is specifically aimed at fostering self-awareness among secondary school students, promoting gender inclusivity, and highlighting the shared role of boys and girls in national development.
Day Two featured engaging sessions that inspired students to discover their identity, build self-confidence, and make informed decisions.
Facilitators addressed the importance of education, the power of discipline, and the need for intentional living in a generation often distracted by fleeting trends.
Participants were urged to rise above peer influence, explore their talents, and embrace values that promote excellence and leadership.
The program also included a humanitarian segment with the Access to Learning and School (ATLAS) Initiative donating stationery and sanitary pads to support the academic and personal hygiene needs of female students.
In recognition of academic excellence, Children, Youth and Women Empowerment Initiative (CHIYOWO) awarded school bags to the top three performing students in both participating schools.
Speaking during the program, Comrade Ogunbowale Olatayo Bodunrin, National President of NAIDS, reiterated the association’s mission to shape a generation of emotionally intelligent and purpose-driven youths.
“We aim to bridge the knowledge gap among young people while awakening their understanding of self through the lenses of the ideal self, the glass self, and the real self,” he said. “This outreach is a conscious step toward building students who are ready to take charge of their destiny.”
Ambassador Suliat Yetunde Oguns, a key facilitator, delivered an electrifying message urging students to remain focused and driven. She challenged them to look deeply into life’s challenges and opportunities rather than just skimming the surface.
“Let success be your motive. Don’t look out of a situation, look into it. Engage with your reality, and take ownership of your development,” she advised.
She warned against the pressures of peer influence and societal expectations that often derail young people from fulfilling their potential.
“Pressure should never define your pace. You hold the key to your future—you must believe that you are enough.”
Another facilitator, Mr. Hassan Bashiru Oluwakemi, implored students to begin shaping their life’s path early.
One of the key highlights of the event was the presentation of an award to Ambassador Suliat Oguns of the Lagos Youth Parliament, who made a brief but impactful contribution during the program.
“Whatever you want to become starts from this moment. Set goals, stay focused, and behave in ways that make you a positive example,” he urged.
He distinguished between wants and needs, encouraging critical thinking when making decisions.
“Understanding your true needs helps you cultivate discipline and purpose. Choose a career that aligns with your passion, not what society dictates.”
He also advocated for peer-to-peer learning, saying, “Everyone has something valuable to offer. Learn from one another.”
Bushroh Olatunji, representing the ATLAS Initiative, led a vital session on Sexual Reproductive Health and Rights, focusing on menstrual hygiene and consent. She urged adolescent girls to maintain cleanliness, use safe sanitary products, and seek help when needed.
“Good hygiene builds your confidence and health. Don’t overlook the little things that keep you strong.”
She also warned students against distractions such as romantic entanglements, reminding them to prioritize their studies.
“This is your season of preparation. Don’t waste it on courtships or distractions. Channel your energy into building your future.”
Bushroh emphasized the importance of consent, saying:
“You have the right to say no. Be cautious about what you agree to. Your comfort and safety matter.”
In his address, Comrade Michael Stephen of CHIYOWO encouraged students to reject negative peer influence and instead develop integrity and moral strength.
“Your choices today are the building blocks of your tomorrow. Don’t let pressure destroy your dreams—invest in personal growth and excellence.”
He emphasized the need to surround oneself with positive influences and stressed that education remains a major tool for change.
“The quality of your decisions will determine your impact on society. Make every choice count.”
The outreach was met with enthusiastic participation and gratitude from both students and educators. Teachers and school administrators commended NAIDS National and its partners for delivering timely and impactful life lessons to the next generation.
As the campaign continues to sweep across Ikorodu Division, more schools are expected to benefit in the coming days—each stop serving as a platform for mentorship, enlightenment, and empowerment.
INN-HOUSE☆ 