The Obiga Mathematics and Leadership Foundation has urged stakeholders to invest in mentorship and leadership training for young Nigerians. The foundation's founder, Mr. David Obiga, made the call during the maiden edition of "Champion Connect," a programme that brought together outstanding young people from six schools across Rivers State and beyond for mentorship and personal development. The initiative aims to equip young people with leadership skills, values, and knowledge to contribute meaningfully to society.
According to Obiga, Nigeria is experiencing a leadership gap due to negative values and role models promoted in some sections of society. He explained that the foundation seeks to instil values such as integrity, hard work, and selfless service in young people to prepare them for leadership positions. Obiga disclosed that participants were selected from different schools based on their academic performance, including students who achieved First Class and Second Class Upper results.
Obiga emphasized that academic excellence alone is not enough, and young people need continuous mentorship and guidance to achieve their full potential. He noted that the foundation's goal is to nurture and mentor young people to ensure they continue to grow. Obiga called on government agencies, private organisations, and well-meaning individuals to support youth development initiatives, stressing that building future leaders should not be left to one organisation.
A financial expert, Toba Ololeye, encouraged young people to develop healthy financial habits early in life. Ololeye addressed participants on financial planning and wealth creation, advising them to cultivate the habit of saving and investing, regardless of how little they currently have. She noted that although inflation remains a challenge in the economy, young people can still make informed financial decisions by learning from experienced entrepreneurs and developing effective money-management skills.
Another speaker, Toba Ishola, emphasised the importance of resilience in overcoming life's challenges. Ishola declared that champions are not born but built through determination, experience, and continuous personal development. He explained that setbacks and difficulties are part of life's journey, and individuals must learn to reflect, make necessary adjustments, and continue pursuing their goals.
The "Champion Connect" programme is an initiative of the Obiga Mathematics and Leadership Foundation to shape the future of young Nigerians. The programme provides a platform for young people to learn from experienced speakers and develop essential skills for success. The foundation's initiative has been commended by stakeholders, who see it as an opportunity to empower young people to become future leaders.
The foundation's call for increased investment in mentorship and leadership training for young Nigerians has been echoed by experts. They believe that with the right skills and values, young people can contribute meaningfully to society and become future leaders. The programme has been hailed as a step in the right direction towards addressing the leadership gap in Nigeria.
Key points
- The Obiga Mathematics and Leadership Foundation has called for increased investment in mentorship and leadership training for young Nigerians.
- The foundation's initiative, "Champion Connect," aims to equip young people with leadership skills, values, and knowledge to contribute meaningfully to society.
- Experts believe that with the right skills and values, young people can contribute meaningfully to society and become future leaders.
