By: Manoah Kikekon
BADAGRY, LAGOS – A new chapter for youth leadership in Badagry has officially commenced. On March 6, 2026, The Deborah International Outreach, in a strategic partnership with the Centre for Youth Integrated Development (CYID) and supported by Tech Now Global, launched a specialized four-week leadership and advocacy program.
The inaugural session welcomed a dedicated cohort of 13 young participants, marking the start of an intensive journey toward purpose-driven influence and community impact. While the group is intimate in size, the energy and commitment displayed during the kickoff suggest a high potential for profound personal and communal transformation.
The highlight of the first week was the introduction of "Otherish Support" a core leadership philosophy that challenges traditional power structures. Unlike conventional "top-down" leadership models, the Otherish approach emphasizes the importance of lifting others while simultaneously pursuing personal growth and purpose.
Participants were guided through sessions that redefined leadership as an act of responsibility and service rather than a mere title or position of authority. This shift in perspective encouraged the emerging advocates to view their influence as a tool for collective betterment rather than individual gain.
Speaking during the session, Bunmi Onilude, the pioneer of Deborah International Outreach, expressed her optimism for the cohort. She noted that while the group consists of 13 individuals, their readiness to engage in deep collaboration is what sets them apart.
"We are focusing on quality over quantity," Onilude remarked. "These young participants are eager to grow in purpose, and they are already showing the curiosity needed to challenge conventional views of leadership in our society today."
Through guided discussions and reflective workshops, the participants delved into three critical areas:
Purpose-Driven Leadership: Understanding the "why" behind their actions.
Community and Collaboration: Realizing that sustainable change is never a solo effort.
Influence and Change: Identifying how even the youngest voices can spark significant shifts within their local environments.
The session wasn't just theoretical; it was highly interactive. Early discussions revealed a strong desire among the youth to tackle real-world issues affecting the Badagry axis. From environmental concerns to social equity, the participants demonstrated a willingness to brainstorm practical, localized solutions.
The organizers noted that the atmosphere was one of openness. Participants were not just listening; they were questioning, debating, and reimagining what it means to be a "change agent" in a modern Nigerian context.
As the first week concludes, the foundation for the remaining three weeks is firmlyhi in place. The program is designed to move from self-discovery to active advocacy. The upcoming modules will focus on helping the cohort think critically about societal bottlenecks and develop sustainable models for intervention.
By the end of this journey, these 13 participants are expected to transition from students to advocates. With the support of Tech Now Global and CYID, the program aims to instill the confidence necessary for these youths to initiate change long after the four-week period ends.