The Babajimi Benson iCare Foundation, organized one-day iCare Lecture Series programme, which took place earlier today on the 27th of April, brought together Local Government Councillors, Supervisors, Political Aspirants, and Community Youths. The primary objective of this lecture series is to enhance Governance, nurture Grassroots potentials, and promote inclusivity within the community.

Olakunle Soriyan, a renowned Guest speaker, delivered a lecture titled “Fostering Leadership at the Grassroots.” He emphasized that the number of degrees one possesses does not determine their worth; it’s about what they have in their mind and what they can offer to the people.

According to Soriyan, determination and focus are key factors in achieving success in any endeavor. He encouraged individuals to live in the future today, understanding that every action taken in the present shapes their future. He highlighted that the future exists only in our minds and that we have the power to shape it.

Soriyan emphasized the importance of education in shaping one’s future, stating that it doesn’t have to be limited to traditional schooling. The classroom holds value even outside of formal education, and being able to speak English is not the sole measure of education.

In his lecture, Soriyan also discussed the qualities of a superpower leader. He highlighted the importance of self-honesty, self-evaluation, and self-questioning. Leaders should have the ability to question their environment and themselves, constantly seeking growth and improvement.

In his speech, Rep. Babajimi Benson, a member of the House of Representatives representing Ikorodu, highlighted the significance of the iCare lecture series focused on the youth of Ikorodu federal constituency. He expressed his desire for the youth to internalize the lessons shared during the series, emphasizing the importance of personal growth and learning from others’ experiences.

Rep. Benson reiterate what the Guest Lecturer said  about his challenges during his academic journey. The Guest Lecturer revealed that he initially struggled in his studies, failing in his fourth year of a four-year course. However, he persevered and restarted from the first year, eventually completing his studies. This anecdote served as a powerful reminder that tomorrow can be brighter for the youth if they remain determined, seek guidance from mentors, and draw inspiration from individuals who have overcome hardships.

Rep. Benson’s message to the youth is one of hope and optimism. He firmly believes that Nigeria will regain its greatness. He highlighted the importance of having experienced leaders guiding the nation and expressed confidence in the potential of the country’s economy to improve. Rep. Benson emphasized that a stronger economy will lead to job creation, providing numerous opportunities for the youth to thrive.

Reflecting on the progress Nigeria has made, Rep. Benson expressed his wish to be a youth in the present time, as he sees immense potential that was not available during his own youth.

Mayor Deen Sanwoola, the Director General of the iCare Foundation, highlighted the upcoming NYCN, Local Government, and other leadership elections. He emphasized the importance of having solid reasons for contesting these positions.

During his speech, Mayor Sanwoola mentioned President Tinubu as an example. When President Tinubu was contesting, people recognized that he had paid his dues through his contributions and experience.

He also emphasized that while everyone has the right to aspire to lead, not everyone is qualified for leadership positions. It’s crucial to assess the qualifications of the current leaders you aim to replace and compare them to your own.

Academic qualifications are just one aspect to consider. You should also evaluate the overall strength and qualifications required for the position you’re aspiring for. Many individuals aspiring for positions like the NYCN or student unions may lack the necessary strength and qualifications.

Mayor Sanwoola concluded his lecture with the phrase “leaders eat last,” emphasizing the selflessness and dedication that true leaders exhibit. They prioritize the needs of others before their own, putting the well-being of the community first.

During the discussion, Mr. Peju Akinyemi emphasized the importance of serving the people in politics and Governance. He firmly stated that those who are not willing to serve have no place in these fields. He said Rep. Babajimi Benson, however, stands out as someone who possesses these qualities.

Mr. Akinyemi highlighted the need to make a difference in politics and Governance, citing the example of Bosun Tijani, who currently serves as the Minister of Digital Communication in Nigeria. Tijani’s outstanding performance in creating the Co-Creation Hub in Yaba, Lagos, has been recognized and praised.

The President recognized Tijani’s qualifications for the ministerial position due to his ability to make a difference in his chosen field. This serves as a reminder to all individuals to strive for excellence and contribute positively, regardless of the field they find themselves in.

Dr. Abiodun Fatai Abatan, the Acting Dean of Student Affairs LASU, in his lecture on the topic youth in politics. He emphasized the need for young people to reinvent and reconstruct themselves in the political sphere.

Dr. Abatan highlighted that many of us have not taken the time to truly understand politics and have failed to present ourselves as individuals with positive agendas for politics and Governance.

According to him, it is crucial for youths to have role models like Rep. Babajimi Benson, who exemplify the qualities necessary for success in politics and Governance. He encouraged young people to focus on building their academic exposure and capacity, emphasizing that leadership is not something that is handed to us, but rather a continuous process of growth and development.

He also emphasized the importance of having clear goals for the future. He urged young people to have a direction to work towards in the next 10 years, emphasizing the need for purpose and determination.