Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. (Dr) Mudashiru Obasa, has charged students and pupils of schools in his constituency to develop a growth mind-set to be successful in life.
The speaker also shared life nuggets acronym, SMART, with the students to guide them in their journey towards attaining success in life.
SMART, according to him, stands for Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant and Time-bound.
In his address titled, “Unlocking your potential: believing in yourself”, delivered at an event to celebrate his 52nd birthday held at his Alma Mater, Oyewole Primary School, Agege, Lagos on Friday, Obasa disclosed that the aim of the gathering is to inspire the young ones to become persons of substance in future.
He urged the children not to give in to crime and illicit acts regardless of the challenges life throw at them.
He said, “Today, as I commemorate my 52nd birthday, I am reminded of the incredible journey that has brought me to where I am today. And I am honoured to share my story with you, in the hope that it will inspire and motivate you to reach for your own dreams.
No matter what the challenge, you will get over it. Don’t allow any negative influence to become a criminal. Girls, don’t be tempted. What will be your pride when you grow and become a mother? Be morally upright and God will be with you all.
As I look around this place, seeing promising faces, I see the future leaders, innovators, change-makers of our world. I see young minds bursting with potential, eager to make their mark. And I want to tell you that you have the power to achieve greatness.
Your education is the foundation upon which your future is built. It is the key to unlocking your potential, to opening doors of opportunity and to achieving your dreams. Don’t take it lightly. Take it seriously.
You are capable of achieving greatness, no matter where you come from or what challenges you face. Don’t let anyone tell you otherwise. You have a unique gift, a talent that only you possess. Nurture it, cultivate it and share it with the world.
Life will not always be easy. There will be obstacles, setbacks, and failures but don’t be discouraged. Instead, learn from them. Use them as stepping stones to success.
The people you surround yourself with will shape your thoughts, your actions and your destiny. Choose wisely. Surround yourself with people who believe in you, who encourage you, and who push you to be your best self.
No matter how impossible your dreams may seem, remember that everything seems impossible until its done. You have the power to make your dreams a reality. Stay focused, work hard and never give up.
In closing, I want to leave you with a message of hope and encouragement. You are capable of achieving anything you set you your mind to. Believe in yourself, stay focused, and never give up on your dreams. As I look back on my journey, I am reminded of the power of perseverance, determination, and hardwork. And I know that if I can achieve my dreams, you can do.”
Dr. Obasa, gifted brilliant pupils from across the 20 local government areas of Lagos and students in the six districts of the state with cash rewards.
The host, Orile-Agege LCDA chairman, Hon. Babatunde Johnson, advises the children to shun violence and criminal tendencies.
He said, “Bringing the children together is a unique way of celebrating birthday. I must commend the Speaker for being an inspiration for not only the children but to all. He has paid his dues and God will never let you down. I enjoin the children to shun violence and all criminal tendencies.”
Tutor General/permanent secretary, education districts 2 and 5, Mrs Adekanye Oladele thanked the Speaker for remembering his Alma Mater and being an inspiration to the children.
She said, “The Speaker is a man that is thoughtful. He remember his beginning. We thank you for coming back to your beginning and for being an inspiration to the children. The Speaker went through school and the school went through him. I thank all the lawmakers for moving Lagos State forward every day through quality legislation.”
To celebrate with the speaker, the lawmakers donated 15 sets of personal computers to the Speaker’s Alma Mater and a cash donation of N5m to the parents of Aminah Alege, a victim of shot teargas canister and required medical care with a scholarship.
For emerging winners in a current affairs quiz competition, two students namely Ishola Moyinoluwa of Ikeja Junior High School and Isiaka Bashar Ayomiposi of Eko Junior College were awarded scholarships by the chairman of Orile-Agege Local Council Development Area, Babatunde Johnson.
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