The National Association of Ikorodu Division Students (NAIDS NATIONAL), in partnership with the Children and Youth Welfare Organization (CHIYOWO) and the ATLAS Foundation, successfully concluded a three-day school outreach across secondary schools in the Ikorodu Division — a remarkable move to shape the future of the younger generation.
Held from July 7th to 10th, 2025, the initiative, themed “Inspiring Gen Z for a Purpose-Driven and Enlightened Future,” reached hundreds of students through interactive sessions on education, values, personal development, and responsible decision-making.
Day three brought the outreach to a powerful conclusion, with impactful engagements held in selected schools across the division.
Thought leaders, youth advocates, and professional mentors from the three collaborating bodies delivered rich sessions tailored to awaken consciousness, reshape mindsets, and instill lifelong values.
CHIYOWO representatives addressed the students on the importance of maintaining academic focus, resisting distractions, and developing strong moral character, while the ATLAS Foundation facilitated an in-depth conversation on sexual and reproductive health.
Emphasis was placed on body autonomy, hygiene, consent, and proactive self-care.
Comrade Ogunbowale Olatayo Bodunrin, National President of NAIDS, delivered a compelling speech condemning the growing acceptance of social vices among today’s youth.
He addressed rising concerns about the allure of quick wealth through cyber fraud (commonly called Yahoo Yahoo), ritualism, gambling, prostitution, and hookup culture.
“There is no honour in wealth obtained through criminality,” he asserted.
“We must dismantle these dangerous narratives and guide our youth back to the paths of discipline, hard work, and legitimate ambition.”
Ogunbowale urged students to pursue education, personal growth, and meaningful careers, stressing that true transformation begins with a renewed mindset.
“Societal change begins within,” he noted. “This outreach is about mental reorientation for long-term success.”
Senator Comfort Olafare inspired students to evaluate the company they keep and the associations they join.
“If your circle doesn’t promote growth, then it’s not your circle,” she said, encouraging students to surround themselves with people who uphold values and integrity.
She emphasized that each young person is born with innate potential for greatness but that realizing this requires self-discipline and ethical grounding.
“A person without values is like a vehicle without a steering wheel—uncontrolled and unsafe.”
She outlined three guiding principles for personal advancement: consistency, contentment, and commitment.
“Life will test you, but never give up,” she said. “Stand for something meaningful, or risk falling for anything.”
Comrade Olumide Shofowora added a visionary dimension to the outreach, challenging students to dream boldly and work relentlessly.
“Your destiny is within your grasp. If you can envision it, you can achieve it,” he said.
He encouraged the youth to acquire practical skills and engage in purposeful work that uplifts both self and community.
Warning against the misuse of digital tools, he emphasized that technology is a double-edged sword—capable of building or destroying, depending on its use.
Redefining failure, Shofowora encouraged students to view setbacks as stepping stones to improvement, rather than deterrents to ambition.
Speaking on behalf of CHIYOWO, Comrade Stephen urged students to rise above negative peer influence and commit to the pursuit of excellence.
“Leadership begins the moment you decide to live intentionally,” he told the enthusiastic crowd. “Avoid the shortcuts that lead to regret and destruction.”
He reiterated the need for strong focus, clarity of purpose, and the discipline to walk the narrow path of success.
Mary Oker from the ATLAS Foundation gave a powerful talk on recognizing and reporting sexual abuse. She stressed that silence in the face of danger often leads to worse consequences.
“Don’t wait until abuse happens. If you feel uncomfortable or notice inappropriate behaviour, speak out immediately,” she urged.
“Tell someone you trust—whether it’s a teacher, parent, or counsellor.”
Her message emphasized the importance of emotional intelligence, self-advocacy, and mutual protection among peers.
“Speaking up is not weakness—it’s strength in action,” she added.
To acknowledge the invaluable contributions of the guest speakers and facilitators, the organizers presented awards of recognition to Senator Comfort Olafare and Comrade Olumide Shofowora in appreciation of their dedication to youth mentorship and societal transformation.
In further support of the students’ academic journey, the outreach team also distributed essential learning materials, including notebooks, pencils, biros, and sanitary pads.
This gesture was received with gratitude and enthusiasm, reinforcing the program’s commitment to both intellectual and moral development.
The outreach program received widespread commendation for its coordination, relevance, and student-focused delivery.
Organizers expressed enthusiasm about expanding the initiative to reach even more schools in the near future.
This impactful intervention stands as a beacon of youth empowerment in Ikorodu Division—proving that with the right mentorship, support, and moral guidance, today’s students can become tomorrow’s transformative leaders.
INN-HOUSE☆ 