By: Manoah Kikekon
The Centre for Youths Integrated Development (CYID) successfully launched the inaugural edition of the CYID Evening Idea Circle on August 14, 2026, at the CYID Youth and Migration Resource Centre in Badagry.
Designed as an energetic and highly interactive space, the maiden event brought together vibrant minds to collaborate, share innovative concepts, and tackle pressing socio-economic challenges, with a strong focus on Badagry’s booming tourism ecosystem.
Breaking Free from the "Rat Race"
Anchored by Mr. Victor Aihawu, Director of the Centre, the session kicked off with a compelling wake-up call on modern productivity and mindset shifts.
Aihawu warned participants against falling into the exhausting trap of the modern "Rat Race," noting that it poses severe adverse effects on personal businesses and long-term futures. He further highlighted a growing societal concern:
"Poverty today has become a lifestyle as most people become so comfortable with the little they are doing, some not seeing the need to learn more."
The discussion challenged attendees to step out of their comfort zones, embrace continuous learning, and pursue sustainable growth.
From Dialogue to Action: The Badagry Adventure Picnic
Staying true to its motto "Think. Share. Take Action" the Evening Idea Circle went beyond conventional roundtable discussions. The brainstorming session culminated in a concrete, actionable initiative: a pilot three-day unusual, unceremonial adventure picnic.
Curated around exploration, deep connection, and fresh discovery, this upcoming experience promises a revolutionary way to experience and appreciate Badagry's rich cultural and historical landscape.
The session was jointly facilitated by Mr. Victor Aihawu – Director, CYID and Sesede Simeon – Area Representative (West Africa), World Federation of Tourist Guide Associations (WFTGA)
Their combined expertise provided participants with invaluable global perspectives on tourism development, youth empowerment, and community-led innovation.
Described by attendees as spontaneous, engaging, and unforgettable, the maiden edition of the CYID Evening Idea Circle successfully fulfilled its core mission: bridging the gap between dynamic conversations and practical execution.
As CYID continues to pave the way for youth development and tourism in Badagry, stakeholders and participants eagerly anticipate the rollout of the pilot adventure picnic and future editions of the Idea Circle.
Think. Share. Take Action.