In fulfilling a key requirement of the Emerging Political Leaders Fellowship (EPLF), Samson Dairus took a significant step in his civic engagement journey by hosting a 30-minute radio chat titled “Nigerian Youths and the Challenge of Leadership” on Amana 98.1 FM. The session, held on October 25, 2024 with over 500,000 active listeners on Air, and 20 participants calling during the call-in session, was aimed at encouraging dialogue on the role of Nigerian youths in leadership.

Objective of the Activity:

The main goal was to engage Nigerian youth in an open conversation about the challenges and opportunities that come with leadership roles. The discussion sought to inspire young people to actively participate in leadership development, fostering resilience and a commitment to community leadership.

Key Outcomes:

The radio chat heightened awareness among Nigerian youths about the importance of leadership, sparking interest in local leadership initiatives. Many listeners expressed a renewed desire to engage in community leadership roles, with notable interest in programs that foster youth involvement. Listener feedback revealed a strong interest in further discussions on leadership.

Summary of Achievements and Key Highlights:

• Audience Engagement: Over 20 calls and text messages were received during the show, with participants asking questions and contributing their views on youth leadership.

• Youth Interest: Many participants showed a keen interest in local leadership opportunities, with the conversation fueling interest in leadership development programmes.

• Listener Impact: The radio station committed to hosting more programs geared towards youth leadership, signifying a broader impact beyond the event.

Lessons Learnt:

• There is a notable enthusiasm for leadership among Nigerian youth, but many struggle to find channels for effective engagement.
• The presence of relatable role models was identified as a critical factor in inspiring young people to pursue leadership roles.
• Youths from rural areas highlighted barriers such as geographic and digital limitations, which hinder their access to leadership opportunities.

Unintended Outcomes:

Amana 98.1 FM pledged to increase its programming focused on youth participation in leadership, showing the potential for longer-term impact.

Way Forward / Recommendations:

• Frequency: Regular discussions like this one are crucial for maintaining and growing youth interest in leadership topics.
• Partnerships: Collaborate with youth organizations to create follow-up sessions, workshops, or leadership forums to sustain the momentum.
• Resources: Provide additional materials and mentorship opportunities to listeners interested in joining leadership programmes.

Follow-up / Next Steps:

A follow-up radio chat is being planned to dive deeper into the specific questions raised by listeners, offering actionable steps for youth who aspire to take on leadership roles.

Core Objectives

The primary goals of the programme were to foster critical thinking, encourage civic engagement, promote political participation, develop leadership skills, and cultivate a sense of patriotism among students. These objectives aimed to empower the young participants to become more active citizens and leaders in their communities.

Key Outcomes

The debate proved to be highly impactful, building the confidence of the students and revealing hidden talents. Many shy students, who had previously never debated, overcame their fears and spoke eloquently in front of their peers. Notably, some students who participated in the debate later contested for prefect positions in the school, delivering their manifestos with newfound confidence and receiving favourable votes. This shift in self-assurance allowed the school management to make better, more informed decisions regarding prefect appointments for the upcoming academic year, particularly for students previously perceived as shy or less active.

Four representatives from the Rotaract Club, a partnering organization, supported the programme, including a skill acquisition facilitator and two executive members. The school’s director, along with three other staff members, attended the event, ensuring strong institutional support and engagement throughout.

Lessons Learnt

The programme reinforced the value of civic engagement and its ability to make meaningful, lasting impacts on participants. Omobolanle also gained valuable experience in organizing and managing civic activities, as well as working closely with educational institutions and partner organizations.

Unintended Outcome

While the programme was scheduled to begin at 10 AM, a delay occurred due to the school’s ongoing senior prefect elections, followed by technical difficulties involving the Public Address System. Despite these setbacks, the programme proceeded without further issues, and adjustments were made to save time and ensure the event’s success.

Way Forward/Recommendations

Future initiatives should continue to prioritize partnerships and collaborations, as they provide valuable resources and expertise. Funding support is also essential to ensure smooth logistics and to encourage the convener to organize similar impactful events. Additionally, school debates on national and developmental topics should be held regularly to foster critical thinking, patriotism, and leadership skills in students across all groups.

Follow-up

The success of the programme inspired the school to propose a follow-up debate session for the following Monday. During this session, the participants and top-performing speakers will be rewarded for their efforts. Omobolanle has been invited to attend and witness this extended event, further deepening her engagement with the school and the students involved.

Objective of the Activity

The primary objective of this activity was to create awareness about menstrual hygiene among adolescent girls, a critical issue that is often overlooked due to socio-cultural barriers. These barriers, particularly in rural communities, limit young girls’ access to accurate information regarding reproductive health and menstruation. The session aimed to educate the girls on the importance of maintaining proper menstrual hygiene to safeguard their health and well-being. Additionally, this engagement was an opportunity to assess the participants’ current understanding of menstrual hygiene, allowing for more targeted future interventions.

Key Outcomes

The activity successfully provided participants with essential knowledge on how to manage menstruation and practice good hygiene during their cycles. The girls learned about the physical symptoms of menstruation and how to care for themselves during this period. Sanitary pads and personal hygiene materials were distributed to all the participants as part of the initiative to encourage proper menstrual care. By addressing menstruation openly, the session also broke the silence that often surrounds the topic, helping the girls become more confident and informed about their own bodies. This awareness further emphasized the importance of menstrual hygiene, which plays a crucial role in preventing health risks such as reproductive and urinary tract infections—conditions that, if untreated, could lead to infertility or complications during childbirth.

Key Highlights and Achievements

The programme achieved its goal of breaking down the stigma associated with menstruation, fostering a sense of openness and understanding among the students. Participants were encouraged to ask questions and share their personal experiences, creating a safe and supportive environment for learning. The distribution of 10 large packs of sanitary pads was a practical step in addressing the immediate hygiene needs of the girls. Moreover, the session raised public awareness about the serious health risks associated with poor menstrual hygiene and the long-term consequences it could have on young girls’ reproductive health.

Lessons Learnt

From the programme, it became evident that the students were eager to learn and open to new information. Their active participation throughout the session, as well as the thoughtful questions they asked, highlighted their willingness to embrace change and improve their understanding of reproductive health. The girls shared their experiences of adapting to the physical changes in their bodies and were provided with practical solutions to some of the concerns they raised. This engagement with the topic was encouraging, as it signalled that these young girls are on a path to becoming more informed and self-assured about their health. Their enthusiasm and attentiveness throughout the programme offer hope for a brighter future where they can confidently navigate their own reproductive health.

Unintended Outcomes

One unexpected outcome of the activity was the high level of interest and engagement displayed by the participants. Given the rural setting of the school, it was initially assumed that the students might be hesitant or less interested in such topics. However, they were not only attentive and well-behaved but also exceptionally eager to learn. This eagerness revealed the significant untapped potential for educating young girls in rural communities on matters of health and well-being.

Way Forward and Recommendations

There is a pressing need to continue organizing sensitization programmes like this in other schools, particularly in rural and underserved areas. Ongoing education is essential to ensure that more girls are informed about menstrual hygiene and public health. To make a more lasting impact, it is important to call on notable Nigerians, philanthropists, and non-governmental organizations to support such initiatives. Their contributions, in the form of donations of sanitary pads and other hygiene materials, would go a long way in supporting the health and education of young girls in public schools.

Follow-up and Next Steps

A follow-up to this programme is necessary to provide continued support and monitor the progress of the girls who participated. There is a need to ensure a consistent supply of sanitary pads and hygiene materials for the students. During this engagement, 10 large packs of sanitary pads were provided as a gesture of encouragement, but ongoing support will be essential to meet the girls’ long-term needs. A sustained focus on menstrual hygiene education will empower these young girls to take control of their health and futures.

Core Objectives:

The primary goal was to enlighten the students on how to be active participants in their communities by staying informed, engaging in public policy debates, and speaking up on issues that matter to them. The session aimed to spark interest in civic engagement among the students.

Key Outcomes:

The event was insightful and engaging, fostering a deeper understanding of civic awareness. The students learned how their involvement in civic matters can shape public policy and influence the future of their communities.

Lessons Learnt/Recommendation:

During the session, Abdullahi emphasized the importance of voting as a crucial civic duty, highlighting its role in driving change in governance and policy formulation. He also noted that many students were unaware of how to become active citizens before the session, making the event a timely and valuable opportunity for them to get involved in their communities.

Abdullahi identified a lack of civic awareness as a key factor contributing to civic and political apathy in Nigeria. To address this, he recommends expanding civic engagement programmes to reach more grassroots communities through radio, TV, and town hall meetings. He also suggested targeting students in various schools to encourage them to speak up and stay informed about issues that affect them.

Unexpected Outcomes:

The session sparked unexpected interest in holding more community engagements and sensitization programmes at the local level. There was also a strong advocacy for youth involvement in policy debates, with participants expressing a desire to take more active roles in shaping their communities.

Way Forward/Next Steps:

Inspired by the success of this session, Abdullahi plans to expand the reach of his civic awareness campaigns across Bauchi State, targeting more schools for greater participation. He aims to collaborate with traditional, religious, and community leaders to implement the lessons and recommendations from the session in ways that benefit local communities. His goal is to sustain the momentum and promote more youth inclusion in policy debates and governance.

As part of the Emerging Political Leaders Fellowship, a civic engagement initiative titled “Leadership in the Age of Artificial Intelligence” was undertaken on September 20, 2024, by Franklin Osuagwu to explore how emerging leaders can navigate the evolving landscape shaped by technology, especially AI. The objective was to understand its far-reaching implications and embrace its transformative potential while avoiding common pitfalls.

Core Objectives

This initiative was born out of several discussions with young people who expressed growing concerns about the lack of political mentors and the disconnect between technology, and governance. It became evident that while technology was advancing rapidly, many leaders tasked with making critical decisions were unaware of AI’s impact on governance and leadership, so are the younger ones looking up to them. AI is often seen as distant or reserved for tech experts, but its influence permeates every aspect of society, including government structures and leadership circles. The importance of this issue becomes even more pronounced considering the warnings of industry leaders like Dr. Masiyiwa. 

Key Outcomes 

The initiative brought together youths and professionals through an online session, which provided deep insights into both visionary leadership and the enthusiasm and skepticism surrounding AI. Many participants admitted being tribesmen other than good citizens which have affected the way they respond to national issues. They also acquiesced to having limited knowledge of AI’s role in governance and decision-making. However, through the interactive discussions, they had a clear understanding of what visionary leadership should be and the awareness of AI’s relevance to leadership and governance, particularly in its potential to improve service delivery, enhance transparency, and increase efficiency in government processes.

The initiative also succeeded in breaking down the stereotype that AI is only for tech enthusiasts, instead highlighting its potential for solving real-world challenges.

As a tangible result of the engagement, many participants pledged to integrate AI knowledge into their strategic planning and business operations. This proactive approach to AI adoption marked a significant step toward embracing the technology’s potential for growth and innovation.

Expected Outcomes

The civic engagement initiative has laid the groundwork for several outcomes that are expected to materialize in the coming months. Capacity building is one key area, as more young people are expected to seek additional training on several digital skills especially A.I, particularly its application in their everyday lives. Interest is already growing among participants who want to delve deeper into the ways AI can assist with data-driven decision-making. Resources have been provided to enable participants to continue self-development in this area.

Next Steps

The “Leadership in the Age of Artificial Intelligence” initiative is the beginning of a larger movement to ensure that leaders are prepared for the AI revolution. Moving forward, follow-up workshops will be organized to deepen the understanding of AI among interested participants. These workshops will focus on practical applications of AI in business, governance, and public service delivery. A particular focus will be on equipping youths in the community with various digital skills through a planned workshop targeting 100 young people by 2025.

Networking is another critical next step. Building a network of tech-enthusiasts will allow for continued collaboration, insights, and partnerships. Connections will be fostered between participants, AI experts, researchers, and tech firms to further enhance knowledge and practical application of AI in leadership.

Leadership in the age of artificial intelligence is an evolving conversation. It is essential to prepare today for the challenges and opportunities of tomorrow. This civic engagement has made significant strides in positioning emerging leaders for the future, ensuring that AI becomes a tool for empowerment and progress, rather than a source of fear or confusion. The dialogue will continue, with the goal of making AI an integral part of leadership and governance transformation.

On September 27, 2024, our fellows convened for a Green Circle Conversation, addressing the critical issue of low voter turnout in Nigeria. The objective was to analyze the root causes of this challenge and propose actionable solutions. We recognize that low voter turnout undermines the democratic process and weakens the legitimacy of elected officials. To foster an in-depth conversation, we posed several thought-provoking questions to our fellows, focusing on key factors influencing voter engagement in Nigeria.

The session was moderated by Kwaghtagher Iwueseter-Natu, with contributions from the following 2024 Cohort fellows: Najibullah Yau, Ajibola Disu, Omobolanle Ayo-Alake, Olaolu Janet, and Godiya Haruna.

How effective is democracy as a tool for leadership in Nigeria, and is it meeting the developmental needs of the Nigerian people?

Najibullah highlighted that the 2015 General Elections marked a significant decline in Nigeria’s electoral process. Many voters became disillusioned, feeling that each successive leader failed to meet their expectations. This growing distrust has diminished confidence in democracy as a tool for both leadership and national development.

Why is voter registration and turnout crucial to strengthening Nigeria’s democracy, and what impact does voter participation have on governance?

Omobolanle emphasized that active voter participation is the cornerstone of a healthy democracy. It ensures accountability, public trust, and electoral integrity. Without sufficient voter engagement, citizens lose their power to hold leaders accountable, thereby compromising the legitimacy of elected officials.

What are the primary causes of voter apathy in Nigeria, and how do these factors undermine the democratic process?

Ajibola pointed out that poverty, lack of awareness, and misunderstanding of elected officials’ roles are major drivers of voter apathy. In a context where voter turnout is low, it becomes easier to manipulate election results, threatening the integrity of the democratic process.

How do inadequate infrastructure and logistical challenges impact voter turnout, and what specific barriers prevent citizens from voting?

Janet explained that Nigeria’s outdated electoral system, combined with limited access to polling units and doubts about the fairness of vote counts, deters many from voting. Civil society’s voter education efforts are commendable, but systemic issues continue to hinder greater participation.

In what ways might Nigeria’s electoral laws and policies contribute to low voter turnout, and are there legal reforms that could encourage greater participation?

Godiya noted that restrictive policies, such as the mandatory use of Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs), and the lack of consequences for electoral offenses, contribute to voter apathy. Legal reforms are needed to simplify the voting process and restore public trust in the system.

Key Insights and Recommendations:

The conversation made it clear that public trust and civic engagement are severely lacking in Nigeria’s electoral process. Several strategies were proposed to address these issues, starting with the revitalization of the National Orientation Agency (NOA). The NOA must play a central role in educating citizens on the importance of voting and fostering a culture of accountability.

Additionally, enforcing penalties for electoral offenses is critical to restoring trust. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) must take decisive steps to combat vote-buying and other forms of malpractice. Strengthening the judicial system to swiftly sanction offenders, including punitive measures like the revocation of passports and public exposure, will serve as a deterrent to future violations.

Re-engaging the Youth:

One of the key recommendations is to re-engage Nigerian youth, who have become increasingly disillusioned with the political landscape. This disengagement stems from unfulfilled promises, corruption, and a lack of representation. To address this, we must launch targeted civic education programs that resonate with young people, emphasizing the power of their vote and their ability to influence governance.

Leveraging digital platforms and social media, where young people are most active, is essential to rebuilding their trust in the electoral process. Voter education campaigns that address barriers such as registration difficulties and misinformation will help restore their faith in the system. By involving youth in grassroots activism, policy advocacy, and community service projects, we can foster a generation of informed and engaged citizens who view themselves as key stakeholders in Nigeria’s future.

Empowering youth is not just about encouraging them to vote—it’s about instilling in them the belief that they have the power to affect meaningful change.

The article dives deep into the challenges women face in attaining political leadership positions and offers insights into how stronger representation can drive inclusive policies. With diverse perspectives from our fellows, who bring rich expertise from various fields, this piece is a compelling call for action in strengthening women’s political participation across all levels of government.

This publication aligns with the Emerging Political Leaders Fellowship Programme mission to foster civic engagement and advocate for inclusive governance, and we are thrilled to share it with our community.

Read the full article https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Cx3P_VuMYW7ndEDH7XrCrRqPwb7EOUAT/view?usp=sharing

Core Objectives

The activity aimed to cultivate a new generation of young LEADers who would be inspired to take up leadership roles and mentor their peers through intergenerational dialogue. Another key objective was to create a safe space for youth to engage in collaborative efforts that foster leadership and national development.

Key Outcomes

The engagement yielded several impactful results. Participants not only gained enhanced knowledge about the electoral process but also learned strategies to cope with the frustration associated with election outcomes. More importantly, many of them committed to becoming more actively involved in the political process moving forward. A key success of the event was the establishment of a safe environment where open and honest conversations about Nigeria’s challenges could take place. The event provided a safe platform for over 10 participants to discuss and collaborate on solutions to national challenges. It served as a crucial space for active citizenship, where young people could reflect on their responsibilities and how to foster change in governance. Pictures and videos from the event showcase the vibrant discussions and the commitment participants displayed.

Key Highlights/Achievements

Active Participation and Honest Conversations: The participants freely expressed their concerns and frustrations with Nigeria’s current political state without fear of judgment or intimidation. This open dialogue was a highlight of the event, offering a cathartic release and a foundation for renewed commitment.

Renewed Mindset and Commitment to Action: Many of the participants left the event with a stronger resolve to engage in politics, realizing that their collective actions can contribute to national change.

Plans for Future Collaborations: Participants established a “community of practice” that will serve as a hub for continued collaboration, mentoring, and support. This community will be a driving force for youth engagement and civic participation moving forward.

Lessons Learnt

Through the discussions, several key lessons emerged. A significant issue identified was the public trust deficit, where many citizens expressed disillusionment with the political system due to unfulfilled promises. This lack of trust has resulted in a noticeable decline in political participation. Voter apathy was another critical concern, with many participants sharing that past election outcomes and perceived lack of transparency had disconnected them from the political process. Some even admitted to abstaining from voting in recent elections. Despite these frustrations, patriotism endures among the participants, as they demonstrated a renewed passion for Nigeria and a commitment to engaging more actively in the country’s political future.

However, the event did face an unintended challenge: the turnout of youths was lower than anticipated. Despite efforts to raise awareness, youth disinterest and apathy remained significant obstacles to broader engagement.

To address these issues, participants made several recommendations to tackle election fatigue and improve political participation. They emphasized the need for greater transparency and accountability from both the government and citizens. One suggested solution was the adoption of the Option A4 open ballot system to ensure transparency and reduce the cost of elections. Continuous voter education should also be promoted through institutions like the National Orientation Agency (NOA), civil society organizations, and religious centres. Exploring a two-party system could help simplify the political landscape and foster more cohesive political ideas. Furthermore, participants urged political leaders to embrace effective social structures and advocate for reforms that would allow for the immediate transmission of election results, thereby preventing manipulation.

Follow-up and Next Steps

To ensure continuity, a Virtual Community of Practice was created on WhatsApp, allowing participants to stay connected and support one another in their civic and leadership efforts. In addition, physical meetings will be held monthly to provide mentorship, coaching, and networking opportunities focused on national development.

Several participants who previously lacked voter cards or had abstained from voting have now pledged to take an active role in future elections and in Nigeria’s governance process. This commitment marks the beginning of a new chapter of political involvement for these young Nigerians.

Through this civic engagement, Godiya Haruna has successfully planted seeds of hope, leadership, and action, paving the way for a more engaged and empowered youth population in Nigeria.

Core Objectives

The primary objectives of my civic engagement initiative were:

• Raise Awareness About Civic Rights and Responsibilities: The event aimed to educate PWDs about their civic rights, encouraging them to engage actively in community and national development. By understanding their rights, participants can make informed decisions and fully participate in societal activities.

• Foster an Inclusive Community Environment: Central to this initiative was the commitment to creating a community where PWDs feel welcomed, valued, and have equal opportunities to contribute.

• Empower Individuals with Disabilities to Advocate for Their Rights: A key goal was to equip PWDs with the tools and knowledge to advocate effectively for their rights, including how to engage with policymakers and influence decisions that affect their lives.

• Promote Civic Engagement Among PWDs: The initiative encouraged PWDs to take active roles in their communities by engaging in civic activities, including local governance and community initiatives.

Key Outcomes

The event took place on September 29, 2024, at Musa Yar’adua Primary School in Kofar Soro, Katsina, with a targeted turnout of 20 PWDs, consisting of both men and women. The session commenced at 10 AM and lasted for four hours, allowing participants to engage in meaningful discussions about their civic rights, responsibilities, and how they can influence policy changes that impact their lives.

To maintain high energy and engagement levels, refreshments, including mineral drinks and bottled water, were provided, along with transportation fare to facilitate participants’ return home. Attendees expressed their gratitude for the opportunity to engage in a session that addressed their needs and aspirations.

The session revolved around the theme “Awareness Programme: Educating People with Disabilities about Their Rights and Abilities.” Key discussion topics included:

• Understanding Civic Rights and Responsibilities: Participants learned about their fundamental civic rights, such as voting, accessing public services, and engaging in community activities.

• Policy Advocacy and Engagement: The importance of advocating for inclusive policies that reflect the needs of PWDs was emphasized. Examples of successful advocacy efforts from other regions were shared to inspire local action.

• Overcoming Barriers to Inclusion: Discussions highlighted the social, physical, and institutional barriers that PWDs face in Katsina State. Together, participants brainstormed solutions to address these challenges.

Expected Key Outcomes

From this civic engagement activity, we anticipated the following outcomes:

• Increased Civic Awareness: Participants were expected to develop a greater awareness of their civic rights and responsibilities, enabling them to engage more fully in societal affairs.

• Empowered Advocates for Change: Equipped with knowledge of their rights and advocacy tools, participants would be better positioned to engage with policymakers and demand inclusive policies that address their specific needs.

• Enhanced Community Engagement: By fostering a sense of belonging, the event aimed to inspire PWDs to become active contributors to community development initiatives in Katsina State.

• Promotion of Gender-Inclusive Discussions: The mixed-gender participation ensured that both male and female PWDs could share their experiences and perspectives, promoting a more inclusive approach to community engagement.

Way Forward and Recommendations

The event underscored the necessity for sustained efforts to promote the inclusion of PWDs in civic activities. Moving forward, we recommend the following:

Continuous Advocacy for Inclusive Policies: Ongoing advocacy is essential to ensure that policies at the state and local levels reflect the rights and needs of PWDs. Engaging local governments, policymakers, and civil society organizations is crucial for driving long-term change.

Integrating Civic Education into Schools and Vocational Centers for PWDs: Civic education should be included in the curricula of institutions catering to PWDs to equip future generations with the knowledge they need to become active citizens.

Collaboration with Government and NGOs: Partnerships with organizations such as the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD) and NGOs focused on disability advocacy are vital for scaling up the impact of similar initiatives.

Regular Civic Engagement Workshops: Periodic workshops and forums should be held to continually engage PWDs in discussions about their rights, responsibilities, and contributions to national development.

Conclusion

The “Empowering Abilities: Promotion of Civic Engagement and Inclusion of People with Disabilities in Katsina State” initiative marked the beginning of a critical conversation about the inclusion of PWDs in civic life. By educating and empowering this marginalized group, we are nurturing a society that is not only inclusive but also enriched by the diverse voices of all its members. This initiative will continue to evolve as more PWDs embrace advocacy and civic engagement, contributing to the development of a more inclusive and participatory Katsina State.

As an emerging political leader, Clementina understands the tremendous responsibility she carries to influence the next generation positively. Her involvement with the Emerging Political Leaders Fellowship (EPLF), founded by His Excellency, Sen. Liyel Imoke, has provided her with a platform to do just that. The EPLF is dedicated to fostering leadership qualities in young individuals, and Clementina is fully committed to using her position to nurture and empower the next generation of leaders. Her visit to Estate High School was a significant opportunity for her to engage directly with students, guiding them to explore their own identities and self-worth as Nigerians. In doing so, she aimed to encourage a deeper understanding of their roles in shaping the future of their communities and the nation at large. The foundation of this discussion was the understanding that true patriotism begins with cultivating healthy self-esteem and recognizing one’s inherent value.

Core Objective

Her goal was to help the students explore their identities as Nigerians, underscoring the importance of healthy self-esteem as a key to realizing their potential and contributing to society.

Key Outcomes

The event began with a warm and heartfelt welcome from the school’s counsellor, Mrs. Olakitan, and teachers like Ms Oluwabusayo Clementina was greeted with enthusiasm, and the students were eager to participate in the session. Over 220 students attended the engagement, with 120 girls and 100 boys actively involved in the conversation. Clementina used affirmations as a tool to help the students reinforce positive self-images and recognize their self-worth. For example, affirmations such as “I am female/male, I am fearfully and wonderfully made,” became powerful mantras, echoing through the room as the students internalized these messages of self-empowerment.

The session was a dynamic and engaging one, filled with interactive elements like singing, clapping, and the enthusiastic repetition of affirmations. The energy in the room was palpable, and both the students and teachers were actively engaged. As part of the Gender Tuesday Assembly, Clementina’s friend Mr. Lanre led the boys in a separate discussion about their own identity, while Clementina took the time to remind the girls of the importance of self-perception. It was a powerful moment as the students reflected on the values of identity and self-esteem that Clementina emphasized.

The teachers were impressed by the level of engagement and the positive energy that permeated the room. Following the session, the teachers expressed their gratitude and extended an invitation to Clementina and her team to return for future sessions. This warm reception encouraged Clementina to think beyond the day’s event and to plan for more ways in which she could contribute to the students’ academic and personal growth. She felt particularly motivated to offer guidance to help students make informed decisions about their academic futures, especially as they approach higher learning.

Key Highlights/Achievements

One of the key highlights of the day was Clementina’s donation of 30 copies of “Career Guide for Graduates & Students: A Guide to Understanding Your Career Path,” written by Engr. Seyi Osanyinbi. This book, which outlines various academic courses and career paths available to students, was a valuable resource for the SS3 students. It covers everything from university and polytechnic programs to vocational training and international career opportunities. By providing these books, Clementina aimed to equip the students with practical knowledge that would help them make informed decisions about their future. Each copy was personally signed with a handwritten note from Clementina, adding a personal touch that further emphasized her commitment to their success.

On Friday, September 27, 2024, Clementina had the honor of presenting these books to the SS3 class of Estate High School. This gesture was not just about donating physical resources, but about imparting wisdom and encouraging the students to take the next step in their educational journey with confidence and clarity. The gesture was well-received, and the students were deeply appreciative of the thoughtfulness behind the donation, as well as the practical advice Clementina provided during her visit. This act of giving also served to reinforce the idea that self-esteem and identity go hand in hand with making purposeful choices for the future. It was a day of empowerment for both the students and Clementina, who left the school knowing she had made a meaningful impact.

In conclusion, Clementina Busayo Odetola’s engagement with the students of Estate High School, Shagari was a resounding success. It was an opportunity for her to give back to the community, inspire young minds, and remind them of their intrinsic value. Through affirmations, open dialogue, and practical advice about career paths, Clementina left a lasting impression on the students, encouraging them to embrace their identities and take ownership of their futures.