The immediate past Chairman of Odi-Olowo/Ojuwoye LCDA and Deputy Director-General of the Lagos State Campaign Council, Hon. Rasaq Ajala, has charged graduates of the Lagos Youth Development Institute (LYDI) to embrace discipline, good attitude and selflessness as they begin their leadership journey.
Ajala gave the advice while speaking at the graduation ceremony of 40 fellows of the LYDI Transformational Fellowship Programme (TLP), Cohort 2, where he urged the young graduates to see leadership as an opportunity to serve and make meaningful contributions to society.
He emphasised that success does not come easily, stressing the importance of maintaining the right attitude and demonstrating discipline in every aspect of life.
According to him, “Nothing comes easy; your attitude and discipline matter.”
Ajala maintained that individuals who aspire to go far in life must cultivate good character and discipline, noting that these qualities are essential for building influence and earning the confidence of the people.
He explained that discipline, coupled with the right attitude, could inspire individuals to initiate programmes and initiatives that resonate with the people in their communities.
Ajala said such initiatives would enable beneficiaries to recognise the value of the person providing leadership and encourage the people to identify with such leadership.
“With sound discipline, your people will always want to identify with you,” he said.
‘Be Selfless in Leadership’
Ajala also challenged the graduates to embrace selflessness, particularly as they advance into positions of responsibility.
He said the gathering was not merely a graduation ceremony but an opportunity to celebrate the potential of young people who could become future leaders.
According to him, the pedigree and capacity of the leadership of the Lagos Youth Development Institute had provided the graduates with knowledge and exposure that should position them to excel in their respective fields.
“What we are doing here today is celebrating our potential leaders,” Ajala said, adding that the training and exposure provided by the institute should equip the graduates to continue to shine in whatever area they find themselves.
He further urged them to remain selfless in their dealings with society.
Ajala noted that his own experience in public service had reinforced his belief that genuine service to the people ultimately speaks for itself.
“Today, the president of Mushin and Odi-Olowo talks of Ajala here and there. My selfless service to the people speaks for me. My support for the underprivileged, even as a councillor, was overwhelming,” he said.
He therefore encouraged the graduates to emulate the principle of service, urging them that whenever they attain leadership positions, they should think beyond themselves and consider how they could contribute meaningfully to the development of society.
Support for Graduates
Ajala also disclosed a financial support of N1 million for the programme. He added the beneficiaries of the programme would be hosted for a special dinner.
He encouraged the graduates to make the most of the knowledge and opportunities provided through the fellowship, stressing that their journey should extend beyond the graduation ceremony.
The event brought together stakeholders in youth development and leadership, including
representatives of the National Youth Council of Nigeria and the leadership of the Lagos Youth Development Institute.
