Lagos State Deputy Governor, Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, and the Chief Judge of Lagos State, Justice Kazeem Alogba, on Monday hosted participants of the 2025 Lagos Boy Child Initiative (LBCI) in their respective offices, enlightening them on career development, governance, and the importance of lawful conduct.
The Lagos Boy Child Initiative (LBCI), pioneered by the First Lady of Lagos State, Dr. (Mrs.) Claudiana Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, received high praise from both officials, who described it as a vital intervention in fostering a balanced society where boys and girls can equally thrive and achieve success.
Addressing the 200 participants at the Conference Room of his office in Alausa, Dr. Hamzat commended the First Lady’s unwavering commitment to empowering boys, noting that the initiative has transformed beneficiaries into better ambassadors of society over the years.
During an interactive session, the Deputy Governor educated the boys on the policy direction of the current administration, particularly the T.H.E.M.E.S Plus Agenda of Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu. He urged them to take advantage of opportunities in sectors such as transportation, health, and other critical areas of the economy.
Explaining the THEMES PLUS Agenda, Dr. Hamzat highlighted its focus on promoting good governance and ensuring sustainable development for Lagos residents. He encouraged the boys to fully engage in the workshop, calling it a rare opportunity to shape their future. He also stressed that education is not a scam and warned against seeking shortcuts to success.
“Believe in God, seek His guidance, and do not be discouraged when faced with challenges. These situations will ultimately shape you for greatness,” he advised.
Similarly, the Chief Judge, Justice Kazeem Alogba, welcomed the participants to his Ikeja office, commending the First Lady for her dedication to empowering boys from diverse backgrounds, including public and private schools, technical and faith-based institutions, military schools, vocational centres, orphanages, NGOs, and correctional facilities.
Justice Alogba emphasised that while many students aspire to become professionals in various fields, vocational training is equally valuable, as skilled artisans play a crucial role in society. He urged the boys to strive for excellence in their chosen careers, seize available opportunities, and understand the dignity and importance of all professions.
In her remarks, Dr. (Mrs.) Claudiana Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu reiterated that the LBCI is designed to groom boys for purposeful living while building a network of future leaders and advocates. She noted that, over the years, the initiative has addressed many of the silent challenges boys face.
The theme for this year’s workshop, “Empowering the Boy Child to Be a Well-Rounded Individual for the Future,” reflects her office’s commitment to raising visionary leaders, responsible future fathers, and husbands.
“We have taken deliberate steps to provide lasting solutions through various workshops designed for the boys, their parents, and other stakeholders,” she stated.
Dr. Sanwo-Olu explained that the visits to the Deputy Governor and the Chief Judge were strategic, aimed at fostering collaboration and giving the young participants valuable insights from experienced leaders.
As part of the workshop activities, the boys will be camped for three days at Agbowa, where they will receive intensive training from seasoned professionals and experts.
