Press Release
The Osapa London Youth Organization (OLYO) paid a courtesy visit to the Proprietor of Greenfield Comprehensive School, Mrs. Afolabi on Friday 23rd May, 2025. The visit, led by the OLYO President, Rilwan Muritala Eletu-Odibo, featured the presentation of a proposal and the conferment of a Patronship Award in recognition of the immense support and longstanding contributions of Mrs. Afolabi and her late husband, Mr. Afolabi, to the organization.
During the engagement, Mrs. Afolabi expressed curiosity about the vision and objectives of OLYO. She inquired about the organization’s plans to create a meaningful impact in the community, particularly in engaging and empowering the youth.
In response, President Eletu-Odibo delivered a heartfelt tribute, expressing OLYO’s condolences on the passing of Mr. Afolabi. He recalled the foundational role the Afolabis played in the birth of the organization.
“Daddy and yourself have been pillars of our organization. The first donation we ever received came from you both, and that contribution laid the foundation for everything OLYO has become today,” he stated.
He also shared OLYO’s journey from its inception during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, which presented numerous challenges, including delayed official registration. Nevertheless, the organization was officially registered in 2024.
Addressing Mrs. Afolabi’s question regarding OLYO’s core objectives, the President elaborated on the group’s initial community-centered projects.
1. Environmental Sanitation Initiative – A monthly program aimed at uniting the youth of the community through coordinated clean-up efforts. This initiative aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly on environmental sustainability, and is also in line with Lagos State Government’s Climate Action Plan (CAP).
“Our environment, being below sea level, faces frequent flooding. This project not only promotes environmental hygiene but also helps raise awareness and encourages community participation,” he said.
The first sanitation exercise is scheduled for May 31st and will continue once in every months.
2. Free Extramural Lessons for Secondary School Students – Targeted at students from JSS 1 to SS 3 during the third term break, this initiative aims to bridge academic gaps and ensure students remain intellectually engaged during holidays. “We’re seeking a venue to host this program and have concluded the proposal, pending the printing,” he added.
The President also recalled Mrs. Afolabi’s past words of encouragement, stating they had been instrumental in inspiring the organization’s resilience and independence.
In response, Mrs. Afolabi commended the initiatives and expressed her admiration for OLYO’s clear vision and commitment.
“Your proposal is quite overwhelming and impressive. We all must work together to achieve these goals,” she remarked.
She further raised concerns about youth unemployment and the urgent need for skills acquisition and vocational training:
“An idle mind is the devil’s workshop. Many young graduates roam the streets without purpose. Vocational skills should complement academic excellence. Youths must not wait for government jobs before becoming productive.”
She emphasized action over words and encouraged the organization to remain visible and consistent in its efforts:
“People must see the results. Let the sanitation project speak for itself. As you take action, others will join you. Some will gain employment, some will become more responsible, and your organization will earn greater recognition.”
Mrs. Afolabi also recalled a previous sanitation campaign by the school that was misunderstood and halted, stating that a youth-led initiative would likely gain broader acceptance and support:
“Your involvement could even reduce the activities of scavengers, who sometimes do more harm than good. Once people see Osapa youth actively involved, it changes the narrative,” she said.
When the OLYO President sought her consent for the Patronship Award presentation, Mrs. Afolabi humbly asked why she was being considered for such recognition. In reply, President Eletu-Odibo emphasized that the award was a sincere gesture of appreciation for the Afolabis’ foundational support:
“It’s not about what we receive now, but about those who stood by us at the beginning, those who are contributing to the society and most of them reside here in the community.
“You and Daddy were there when it mattered most. This award is reserved for those who have significantly contributed to community development and youth empowerment.
“Not because we want to get anything from anyone and the award is not something we give to everybody. But people who really deserve it, people who has contributed to the development of Osapa London, people who has impacted in the lives of others and you still keep doing that through education,” he said.
Mrs. Afolabi requested OLYO to formally submit the proposal for the Free Extramural Lessons initiative, reaffirming her willingness to support the organization in its laudable goals.
Signed:
Rilwan Muritala Eletu-Odibo
Convener/President
Phillips Moses
Media Director & Publicity
Festus Ohuche
Publisher
26th May, 2025
