01 June 2025
Taiwo Ogunniyi
The Executive Director of Estelle Education Foundation, Miss Ayomitide Ebo, has urged Nigerian parents, educators and communities to embrace intentional parenting and inclusive education as key strategies to secure a better future for the country.
She made the appeal during a Children’s Day celebration organised for students in Ilorin on Saturday, calling on society to protect and nurture children with deliberate care and commitment.
“Children are not just the future; they are the present. How we treat them today will determine the kind of adults they become tomorrow,” Ebo said.
She emphasized that the 2025 Children’s Day theme, Securing the Future, directly aligns with the mission of her organisation.
“This day is more than fun and laughter; it reminds us of the beauty, potential, and importance of every child. At Estelle, we believe every child deserves to be seen, heard, and supported—regardless of their background,” she said.
Ebo explained that the foundation has consistently supported underprivileged children through school fee payments, special needs assistance, and community outreach to ensure no child is left behind.
“Every act of kindness—whether a pencil donated, a word of encouragement, or school fees paid—is a seed planted in the future of our children. It might seem small now, but it’s how we build a generation of confident and capable leaders,” she added.
Encouraging the students, Ebo advised them not to be pressured by the pace of the world.
“Dream big, learn with curiosity, speak kindly, and never forget—there are people rooting for you,” she said.
The Principal of Union Baptist College, the host school, Revd Emmanuel Adejo, commended the initiative and described it as an important step in building the minds of future leaders. Represented by Laboratory Prefect, Precious Adebisi, he encouraged the students to take the lessons seriously for self-development.
Other speakers at the event also echoed the call for deliberate child development.
Mrs Mercy Makanjuola, CEO of Mercy Treat, said, “The future starts now. The decisions children make today will shape what tomorrow looks like.”
Similarly, Mrs Faith Adaramola, founder of Roselcon Fashion Home, advised the students to have a strong sense of identity.
“Know who you are and what you want to become. Live with purpose, avoid laziness, and don’t allow anyone to pressure you into what you are not,” she said.
Motivational speaker, Mr Isaac Oladimeji, urged students to be confident, avoid toxic friendships and guard against any form of sexual abuse.
“To be great, you must work hard and keep your values intact. Don’t talk down on yourself,” he said.
Students from five schools participated in the event, which featured quiz competitions, games, and prize presentations.
