All posts by socialdevelopmentnews

I am Funmi Falobi, Development Journalist, PR professional, Social Entrepreneur and lead contributor/Editor, Social Development News. Beyond journalism, I am also passionate about advancing social causes and empowerment, especially for children, youth and women.
Event, Special report

Enhancing Youth Education: Olajide Awe Foundation Supports 250 Students with Free UTME Forms

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>By Sanmi Falobi<

About 250 students from communities across Oriade Local Government Area of Osun state are on the edge of having their aspirations for tertiary education fulfilled, courtesy of the Ogbeni Olajide Awe Foundation (OOAF), which, as part of its educational advancement initiatives shall be purchasing and donating UTME forms to 250 students that will be writing the 2025 JAMB exams. The initiative, which is up-scaling the previous year’s gesture where about 100 UMTE forms were purchased for indigent students is part of the foundation’s commitment in advancing education for the youths.

The event, which was also organised as part of the official physical launch of the Ogbeni Olajide Awe Foundation, held at the auditorium of the Youth Empowerment Centre, in Iwoye Ijesa, Oriade Local Government Area of Osun State.

According to the founder of OOAF, Olajide Awe, who was subsequently honoured with the Chieftaincy title of Ariwajoye of Iwoye-Ijesa, by His Royal Majesty, the Oniwoye of Iwoye-Ijesa Kindgom, Oba Ogidiolu Amos Adewumi, Otokobo II, the foundation’s intervention is aimed at bridging gaps in access to education, alleviate poverty, and inspire hope through impactful initiatives.

“It is with a heart full of gratitude and humility that I stand before you on this momentous occasion for the physical launch of the foundation. Today, we gather here not just to celebrate an achievement but to reaffirm a commitment to a purpose much greater than ourselves: the empowerment and education of young minds in our community. First and foremost, I give all glory to God for His grace and favour that have made this day a reality”, he said.

OOAF founder, Olajide Awe

Olajide Awe noted that the gesture, is a way of giving back to society and that the initiative aligns with his tradition of celebrating his birthday, which falls due annually on January 3.

He added that the initiative is to contribute in easing the financial burden on families and as well inspire students to pursue academic excellence.

In his welcome speech, he noted that the OOAF was birthed with a simple, yet profound mission: to empower lives and bring smiles to faces, particularly through education without any political undertone.

“Education is the cornerstone of progress, the tool that transforms individuals and uplifts communities. It is our firm belief that by investing in education, we are building a brighter and more prosperous future for all. Education is not a scam. After carefully observing those deprived of education, analysing those who have experienced the transformative power of schooling, and interacting with passionate learners, I have realised one thing—if there is anything worth pursuing in life, it is education’, he said.

Cross-section of beneficiaries

“In January 2024, during the virtual launch of this foundation, we provided 100 UTME registration forms to deserving candidates and supported them with tutorials. Today, as we mark this physical launch, we are proud to distribute 250 UTME registration forms, ensuring more young minds have access to opportunities that can shape their future.

“However, we cannot do this alone. This is a mission that requires collective effort. I invite everyone here—our traditional rulers,  clergymen,  distinguished guests, my network of friends, and community members—to join hands with us on this journey. Your support is vital. Together, we can break barriers, create opportunities, and build a brighter future for the next generation. This is a movement powered by hope, fueled by education, and strengthened by community. Join us as we transform lives—one student at a time”, he added.

Overwhelmed and surprised by the unexpected and unanticipated honour bestowed on him as a Chief, the Ariwajoye of Iwoye-Ijesa expressed his gratitude for the support of the royal fathers and other eminent personalities who graced the occasion.

“I appreciate the presence of your Royal Majesty, The Oniwoye of Iwoye Ijesa Kingdom, Oba Ogidiolu Amos Adewumi, Otokobo II; Your Royal Majesty, the Owaloko of Iloko ijesa, Oba (Dr) Akeem Olusayo Ogungbangbe, Ajagbusi Ekun VI; Your Royal Majesty, the Onitegun of Itegun Ijesa, Oba Oluwaseyi Ogunniyi, and Your Royal Majesty,  Elegboro of Ijebu Jesa, Oba Engr Moses Olufemi Agunsoye, Abikehin Ekun.

Connected by Royalty; the Owaloko of Iloko ijesa & the Oniwoye of Iwoye Ijesa Kingdom

I also appreciate the presence of the Iwoye-Ijesa Council of Chiefs, the Clergymen present, our distinguished speakers, my beloved mother and dear family members,  all student bodies, beneficiaries, and members of this great community”, he added.

The Oniwoye of Iwoye Ijesa Kingdom, the Onitegun of Itegun Ijesa & OOAF Founder

Meanwhile, the Coordinator of the Foundation, Elizabeth Bamisaye, who is in charge of the registration of students under the scheme, noted that the foundation as a non-governmental, non-profit organization is solely launched to help provide for the less privileged in all sphere of life.

“We would be touching the young and the old as we further progress in life.  We are presently starting with students who are done with secondary school and looking forward to writing UTME in 2025. We would register them, tutor them, and give them guidance in their choice of schools and discipline,” she noted.

She added that the foundation has recorded some testimonies.

Elizabeth Bamisaye

“Last year, we obtained JAMB forms for about 70 students and guided them through tutorial classes. As a result, we achieved notable successes. If I am not mistaken, in the entire Oriade Local Government Area, one of our students achieved the highest score of 262, along with other impressive scores such as 251, 245, 236, and 228, which rank among the best results last year. Several of our students also gained admission into higher institutions. So, without a doubt, there are indeed testimonies.

“There are also testimonies from the parents and guardians, including the Oniwoye of Iwoye Ijesa, Oba Amos Adewumi Ogidiolu, Otokobo II, who stated that providing JAMB forms free of charge is one of the successes achieved under his reign as king”, she added.

Giving his perspectives, Michael Babayemi, President of the Federation of Iwoye Ijesha Students’ Union noted that he would be glad to be part of the expected impact of the initiative.

“The programme, being the first of its kind, was really impactful. I’ve not had students message me about a particular course (JAMB) for a long time now, but they’ve been doing that now.

Elizabeth Bamisaye and Michaeal Babayemi

Judging from last year’s results, it has helped lots of students and I believe this year’s will be better than last year’s. I have been responding to the students and telling them the right desks to submit all they need to submit.

If there’s any area I can be of help, I’ll gladly render my assistance/help,” he added.

According to the programme statement of the foundation, other initiatives ahead, apart from educational support shall include skill acquisition, capacity building, and community development projects.

News brief

UNILAG Alumni target greater advancements as new national officers emerge

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The University of Lagos (UNILAG) Alumni Association has been reconstituted to achieve greater advancements. This is coming on the heels of the election of new National Executive Council (NEC) members at the 2023 Annual General Meeting (AGM) held at the Tayo Aderinokun Hall, UNILAG, on Sunday, December 15, 2024.

The election, which was part of the AGM confirmed Engr Ifeoluwa Oyedele, FNSE, FAEng, re-elected to steer the Alumni affairs for the next two years as President (Wordwide). The AGM, attended by alumni members, both physically and virtually, also served as the inauguration ceremony for the 15 new NEC members tasked with running the affairs of the UNILAG Alumni Association.

According to a statement by the National Publicity Secretary, Mrs Funmi Falobi, the unveiling of the new NEC was sequel to the submission of the reports of the search and electoral committees, respectively, noting that the search committee which had Dr John Momoh, OON, NPoM, as Chairman, produced officers for the position of National President (worldwide), the Vice President 1 and National Secretary, while the electoral Committee, which was chaired by Asiwaju Dr Michael Olawale-Cole, CON, MFR , supervised the elections of officers for other positions.

The statement noted that while the tenure of the National President, Vice President 1, National Publicity Secretary and National Social Secretary was renewed, other members of the NEC assumed new roles.

UNILAG Alumni NEC, 2024-2026

The 15-member 2024-2026 UNILAG Alumni national officers include Engr IfeOluwa Oyedele, FNSE, FAEng, President (Worldwide); Chief (Dr) Bala Yesufu, National Vice President 1; Mr Lekan Ajisafe, National Vice President 2; Barr Bayo Osikoya, FCIArb, National Secretary; Mr Olumide Akinola, National Assistant Secretary; Mr Abayomi Owoeye – National Treasurer;  Mr. Adeyemi Ayadi – National Internal Auditor; Mrs Yetunde Moriamo Shitu, National Financial Secretary; Prof Olugbenga Akingbehin, National Legal Adviser;  Mr Francis Shonubi, National Social Secretary and Mrs Funmi Falobi, National Publicity Secretary.

The others are Mr.Tope Smart, Mr Olalekan Fatodu, Mr Bala Abdul and Dr Abdul Gbadamosi, who are to serve as National Ex-Officio Members.

In a remark sequel to the inauguration ceremony, the President (Worldwide), Engr. Ifeoluwa Oyedele, FNSE, FAEng, commended the Search and Electoral Committees for a job well done, while calling on Akokites home and abroad to become more involved in the Association in order to take it to greater heights.

Engr Ifeoluwa Oyedele, FNSE, FAEng

“Your physical presence at the University of Lagos, as well as the attendance by online participants to be part of the AGM, demonstrates your unflinching support and trust in the administration as we strive to take our alma mater to greater heights. We extend our gratitude to the Search and Electoral Committees for a job well done in advancing the course of our association”, he said.

Appreciating the members for attending the AGM, he noted: “This remarkable turnout is a testament to the enduring spirit of excellence and unity that defines us as Akokites. Your enthusiasm and unwavering dedication are an inspiration for us to continue building on the solid foundation of our shared history.

“As the new tenure begins, we look forward to your cooperation, support, and constructive feedback that will spur our association to greater advancements”, he said.

Edited by Sanmi Falobi © Socialdevelopmentnews.com

Gender issues, Media event

Inspiring inclusion: ISISD partners NIJ for IWD 2024

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By Jimoh Oluwaseyi

It was a session of impactful learning when the Initiative for Social Impact and Sustainable Development (ISISD) and the Nigerian Institute of Journalism (NIJ) partnered to commemorate the 2024 International Women’s Day (IWD) with a capacity building programme for the female students of the institute.

The event, which held at the NIJ premises on Friday, March 8, 2024 was centred around the IWD 2024 theme, “Invest in women: Accelerate progress” with the campaign hashtag #InspireInclusion.

Dr Ifedolapo Ademosu, a Communication and Sustainability Specialist in her presentation titled: ”Write Your Own Story,” charged the students to define who they want to be and set their goals.

Using the Harold Lasswell’s Model of Communication process in driving home her point, she encapsulated the need for a woman to know- who she is, what is going on with her, when she wants to begin to effect a change, where she really wants to be in the future, how to overcome life’s obstacle and understanding why she wants to achieve those goals.

“Focus on where you are going because the road to success is not straight
“Set your goals. Ask the right question and collaborate with people,” she advised.

Dr. Ademosu motivated the female students by making suitable references to past phenomenal women in the media space. Adding, “You don’t fight the male gender. What you need to do is learn how to negotiate. You need to understand the limitation of the environment you are.”

Also speaking, the Chief Nursing Officer, Ifako Ijaiye General Hospital, Lagos State, Mrs. Oluseyi Olaitan shared with the students vital health tips on the need for women to embrace and prioritise holistic health if indeed these potential mothers want to produce a healthy nation.

She admonished that the students must be socially fit, physically stable, mentally alert and spiritually healthy to be able to cope with life issues.

She urged them not to abuse drugs but encouraged them to eat healthy and take time to rest.

“It is true things are hard but make use of the minimal resources available. Drink water, take fruits. When you are healthy, immunity is high, your body will be able to fight disease. To be healthy you must have a good rest,” she urged.

L-R: Lekan Otufodunrin , Ifedolapo Ademosu, Funmi Falobi and Oluseyi Olaitan

Contributing to the session, the Executive Director, Media Career Development Network, Mr. Lekan Otunfodunrin challenged the female students through the lifestyle of Oluwatoyosi Ogunseye, a former female student of the institute who is making a meaningful impact in her world.

He said Oluwatoyosi was a former Sunday Editor at the Punch Newspaper but soared to become a senior editor at the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) and currently the President of an international organisation.

“You need to inspire yourself. There is no position in the media that women have not occupied. There is nothing impossible that women cannot do in the media. You are able. Don’t let anyone tell you women have not done it. Include yourself if nobody includes you. Speak up,” Otufodunrin said.

To spice up the event, Nature’s Gentle Touch, a subsidiary of Recare, engaged the participants with tips on proper hair care. In a speech to commemorate the event, the CEO, Recare, Mr. Chijioke Anaele, explained that this year’s IWD theme aligns with Nature’s Gentle Touch brands initiative which includes investing in, uplifting and empowering women with skills and knowledge.

Represented by Mfon Nkereuwem, he said the brand specifically formulated for the Nigerian woman using natural ingredients have been supporting women by creating unique products that provide solutions to their hair and scalp problems.

“Our state-of-the-art Hair Institute, with a team of seasoned professionals is one of the largest conservatoire of beauty and style education in sub Sahara Africa. We are always on ground to provide insights into personalized hair/scalp care routines treatment designed specifically for the health of your hair and scalp,” he stated.

Earlier, the facilitator of the event, a social development advocate and development journalist, Mrs. Funmi Falobi, in her opening remark stated that there is need for women to embrace their personality while purposefully strategising to achieve higher feats in life and career.

She reiterated the reasons to address gender inequality and the need to embrace better inclusion through proper self positioning.

“As young female journalists, you must know that there is no limit to what you can achieve in lfe and career. You must believe in yourself. You must reinvent yourself, explore opportunities and get mentorship which will help you to attain your full potential in your field of endeavours,” Falobi advised.

There was also a poetic performance by Jimoh Elizabeth Oluwaseyi entitled: “This Wombed-Man Called Woman,” an inspiration and appreciation of the feminine gender.

The interface session afforded the students to ask various questions pertaining to womanhood and career advancement and suitable answers were provided.

The students expressed their sincere and heartfelt appreciation to the speakers as they were determined to accelerate progress just like the theme of the International Women’s Day suggests.

Event announcement, News brief

SCHOLARSHIPS FOR GIRLS AS FOUNDATION CELEBRATES 10TH ANNIVERSARY

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The African Women Foundation for Nation Building, WINBAFRICA, as part of its commitment in promoting girl-child education and empowering women and young girls in critical thinking and leadership skills in secondary schools across Africa, has announced the annual school debate competition and scholarship programme for 20 young girls. The Schools Debate, to celebrate the NGO’s 10th anniversary under the theme, Bridging the Gab: Celebrating a decade of Nation Building” is scheduled for Monday, February 26, 2024 at the Alliance Francaise, Mike Adenuga center, Ikoyi, Lagos.

Speaking on the initiative, which is the first event in the series of events in 2024 to commemorate its 10th anniversary, the President, WINBAFRICA, and Chief Strategist, Irachy PR, Dr. Bukola Bello-Jaiyesimi said the organization is looking forward to expanding its reach and impact, and continuing to make a difference in the lives of girls across Africa.

Bukola Bello-Jaiyesimi

She noted; “Through initiatives like the scholarship programme, WINBAFRICA is paving the way for a brighter future for girls and empowering them to reach their full potential. WINBAFRICA’s 10th anniversary is a testament to the organization’s dedication and commitment to promoting education and empowering women and girls in Africa.

“This year’s programme is a significant step towards creating a more inclusive and equitable society, where girls have the opportunity to thrive and succeed, paving the way for a brighter future for girls and empowering them to reach their full potential. As we celebrate WINBAFRICA’s achievements over the past decade, let us continue to support and champion the rights of girls to education and empowerment. Together, we can build a brighter future for all.

According to her, “The school debate competition will provide a platform for girls to showcase their talents and engage in meaningful discussions on important social and economic issues facing them and the continent.”

The lineups for this year’s celebration, according to WINBAFRICA will be between Steady Steps School, Lekki, and Bomak International Schools Surulere, Lagos, who have emerged at the final stage of the competition. Both schools will be competing for WINBAFRICA YOUNG NATION BUILDERS’ TROPHY (WYNBT) in a debate.

Speaking further, Dr. Jaiyesimi revealed that aside from the Schools Debate competition, the senior secondary students of Bomak International College, Surulere, Lagos would be at the front burner discussing Environmental Responsibility during the WINBAFRICA Business Roundtable.

Founded in 2014 by a group of dedicated women led by Dr. Bukola Bello Jaiyesimi, an Entrepreneur, Pan-Africanist, and multiple award recipient with a passion for projecting women’s issues, WINBAFRICA is present in Ghana, Gambia, South Africa, and Ethiopia. The organization has been at the forefront of championing the rights of girls to education and providing them with the necessary tools and resources to succeed. Over the past decade, the organization has impacted the lives of thousands of women and young girls in Africa through its various programs and initiatives.

Event announcement, News brief

Africa round trip: Nigerian hodophile set to break Guinness World Record tripping 54 African countries by road and sea

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>By Sanmi Falobi<

He is one of a rare breed. A Wanderluster, who is consumed by the desire to explore and discover new places and the thrills of the culture and norms of Africa.

Ileri Babalobi, a Nigerian hodophile is set to visit all 54 African countries via road and sea travel in an attempt to become the first African to complete such a feat, and setting two Guinness world records in the process. As with hodophiles, an ancient Greek word which simply means ‘One who loves to travel’ and those who are one, 31 year old Babalobi has been to all the 36 states of Nigeria, all the 16 regions of Ghana as well as over a dozen African countries.

“I have always wanted to visit all African countries, a dream stretching back over ten years ago. I had already taken steps towards that, by visiting more than a dozen of them on my own”, Babalobi said in an exclusive chat with SDNonline.

According to his travel itinerary, he will visit 48 African roads by Public transport and 6 Island countries by sea. The attempt, which is titled “Naija to the World” is aimed at showcasing the resilience that Nigerians are made of. He will also use the trip to galvanise support for the Nigerian Red Cross. At the Borders of each Country, He will take a picture with the Nigerian Flag.

“The Nigerian Red Cross does so much good work for Nigeria. I’ll be raising awareness for funds for the Nigerian Red Cross at every step of the trip. I fell in love with this country when I visited all the 36 states and I consider myself a patriot. I’ve always wanted to do something Gratis for Nigeria, and I found an opportunity by combining multiple passions. The Red Cross also have a track record of effective charity” Babalobi said, giving further insight into the travel expedition tagged, “Naija to the World”.

“I am a travel enthusiast because I love seeing new cultures and how people live. Even before this attempt, I have been to all the 36 states of Nigeria and when I lived in Ghana, all the 16 regions of Ghana as well. I have long said that I’m probably the only person in the world that has seen Ghana and Nigeria completely, by going to all 36 states in Nigeria and all 16 regions in Ghana.

Additionally, I’ve been to over a dozen African countries and my last road trip stretched for three months – July to October 2023 where I visited 10 African countries”, he said.

Ileri Babablobi who started travelling shortly after appearing on the Game show ‘Who wants to be a Millionaire’ and winning a million naira, said he chose to spend his resources on travelling because he wanted to explore other people’s cultures and to satisfy his curiosity about Africa and Africans.

He would also be promoting the Borderless Africa campaign by the NGO, Africans Rising.

Under the ideals of the borderless Africa campaign, he believes there should be a deeper brotherhood among Africans and that Africans should be able to easily travel from one Africa country to another.

“It’s a pity that Africans have to pay expensive visa fees to visit most other African countries. I look forward to a future where most of the barriers to migration for Africans within Africa are removed “.

While calling for private and public organisations as well as the government to support his expenditure, he noted that the voyage will take about 9 months, spending 3 or 4 days on average in each country and visiting the tourist sites and interacting with the culture of each country. He added that the adventures of each day would be posted on YouTube. The “Naija to the World” expedition is scheduled to start in March 2024.  

According to him, though there might be hazards in the course of the journey, he was unperturbed.

“I am not afraid. I trust God. Nevertheless, there are likely to be challenges on the way. Some areas are not very safe, but safety is relative. Additionally, I have experience in road trips. By taking basic precautions, I should be fine. I have some precautions I’m talking which I won’t mention publicly for now” he added.

According to him, the expedition is a very important one for him because “it feels like I was born for this”.

Ileri Chukwuemeka Babalobi, with a degree in Psychology from the University of Ibadan, is an indigene of Osun State. He was born in Enugu, and grew up in Northern Nigeria before moving to Ibadan as a child.

He can be reached/followed on social media @

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ileribabalobi/

https://youtube.com/@africatours

Twitter: https://twitter.com/ileribabalobi