In a bid to curb the rising cases of teenage pregnancy and celebrate the International Day of the Girl-Child, kakalistiq.com reports that the youths of Bado Oba community in Epe have taken proactive measures by organizing a sensitization program for 40 young girls from Apakeji.
The event, held on Saturday 19th October, 2024, drew participants from four key neighborhoods: Bado-Oba, Etita, Iberikodo, and Ebode, and aimed to equip them with knowledge to navigate societal challenges.
The program, held under the theme “Empowering Girls for a Brighter Future,” featured a series of enlightening discussions led by notable speakers, including Mrs. Shabi Aminat, Mrs. Abimbola Onabanjo, President Bolaji Onabanjo, Okale Rasaq, and Abdullahi Rukayat.
These dignitaries shared their insights on tackling issues that affect the girl-child, urging the community to play an active role in fostering a safer, more supportive environment for young girls.
Addressing the participants, Mrs. Shabi Aminat, the guest speaker, emphasized the need for open conversations about the root causes of teenage pregnancy. She urged the girls to be ambassadors of positive change, stating, “Before you can lead your community, you must first lead yourself with integrity. Be the best version of yourself, and you can inspire change that reaches beyond your neighborhood to the state and even the nation.”
Mrs. Abimbola Onabanjo shared her personal journey, reflecting on the trials she faced and how perseverance shaped her success. “Every dream has its obstacles, but those hurdles are there to build you, not break you,” she told the girls. “No matter how tough things get, keep your eyes on your aspirations. You are tomorrow’s leaders, and your strength lies in never giving up.”
Miss Rukayat Abdullahi also praised the resilience and potential of the girls, expressing her hopes for their bright futures. “Each girl here is a warrior, a conqueror,” she said. “The challenges you face today will make you stronger tomorrow. I applaud the youth organizers for creating this platform to empower and uplift the next generation.”
Reacting to the program, the President of the Association, Onabanjo Abolaji extended heartfelt gratitude to the facilitators, saying: “Programs like this give us hope and courage.” He added that, “It’s a reminder that our girls are not alone, and that their dreams are valid.”
Highlighting the importance of early intervention, Mr. Lateef Obedat remarked, “It’s time we take action, not just talk about the issue. We must address the dangers of teenage pregnancy head-on by educating our girls early. Our community can’t afford to sit back and watch; it’s up to us, especially the youth, to lead this change.”
Throughout the event, the Ambassadors of each neighborhood expressed gratitude to the organizers and facilitators, acknowledging the effort to raise awareness and create a supportive network for them.
The Bado-Oba Youth Forum is led by its President, Mr. Onabanjo Abolaji; Vice President, Otun Olamiji and Secretary, Ogunbowale Kabir. Others include Aremu Kabir, Financial Secretary; Obedat Idowu Lateef, Assistant Secretary; Sanni Seyi, PRO; Shonibare Muibat, Treasurer and Oseni Ibraheem, Organizing Secretary.
