Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on Thursday urged boys across the state to shun drug abuse, cultism and other social vices while embracing discipline, positive values and academic dedication as foundations for responsible adulthood.
The Governor gave the charge during the third day of a residential workshop for boys held at St. Gregory’s College Obalende under the Lagos Boy Child Initiative (LBCI), a pet project of the wife of the Governor, Dr Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu.
Governor Sanwo-Olu cautioned participants against the growing influence of substance abuse and cult-related activities among young people, stressing that such behaviours destroy potential and derail promising futures. He encouraged the boys to remain focused on their studies, limit excessive social media exposure and make deliberate efforts to build character and integrity.
The Governor also emphasised the importance of maintaining close relationships with parents and guardians, advising the boys to openly discuss their fears, pressures and aspirations in order to receive guidance and wise counsel that would help them navigate life’s challenges.
Earlier, the First Lady disclosed that about six hundred boys are participating in the residential programme, noting that the initiative was designed to expose them to both the positive and negative use of social media, as well as educate them on the dangers of drug abuse and other harmful behaviours.
Activities at the workshop included sporting and culinary competitions, alongside educational tours of security agencies and private organisations aimed at broadening career awareness, strengthening discipline and equipping participants with practical life skills.