The Oyo State Government has charged young girls to embrace education, uphold cultural values, and maintain responsible behavior to become successful and responsible leaders in society.
The Honourable Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dr. Wasiu Olatubosun, made the charge during a programme commemorating the 2026 International Women’s Day, organized by Junior Chamber International (JCI), held at Lalupon City Hall.
Dr. Olatubosun emphasized that education is the key to success and encouraged the girls to remain focused on their studies.
He reminded them that they have the capacity to achieve great feats like their male counterparts, urging them to put God first, fear Him, and combine faith with education to develop good judgment.
He also advised them against school dropout, noting that JCI’s initiative aims to secure a brighter future for them.
“Nothing stops you from becoming great in life. This is a very delicate stage of your life, therefore you must face your education seriously,” he said.
The Director of Administration and Supplies in the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, Mrs. O. T. Osundara, delivered a lecture titled “Cultural Values, Ethics and Responsible Behaviour,” stressing that the values individuals imbibe today shape their personality tomorrow.
She encouraged the girls to embrace respect for elders, honesty, teamwork, hospitality, and good character, while also promoting ethics such as truthfulness, anti-bullying, responsible social media use, and personal accountability in academics.
She advised them to avoid peer pressure, set clear goals, protect their mental and emotional health, and build strong self-worth, noting that cultural values guide individuals, ethics protect them, and responsible behaviour prepares them for success.
The Head of Information and Public Relations Unit, Ona-Ara Local Government,
Mrs. Kafayat Olagunju, urged the girls to choose their careers wisely by learning about different professions and aligning choices with their passions.
She highlighted that opportunities for women academically have expanded and encouraged the girls to pursue education and self-development while being mindful of friends, mobile phone use, and parental guidance.
The host and Presiding Officer, JCIN Amb. Esther Adeniji, thanked the speakers for inspiring the girls, describing their advice as a valuable investment in the girls’ future, and urged them to apply every lesson as they continue their personal and academic growth.
Other speakers at the event include the Executive Vice President, South-West JCI Nigeria, JCIN Amb Idara Michael, National Vice President SW D1, JCIN Amb Olajumoke Adelabu and Reproductive and Mental Health Coach, JCI Sen. Aderonke Abolusodun.
