An exciting vocational training and skills acquisition program is currently underway in the Ogun East Senatorial District, focusing on fashion designing for women and youth. This initiative, facilitated by His Excellency, Senator Otunba Gbenga Daniel, aims to equip participants with valuable skills and knowledge to thrive in the fashion industry.

The training, held at the Asoludero Hall in Sagamu, Ogun State, is a reflection of Senator Daniel’s commitment to empowering his constituents, particularly women and youth. By providing access to vocational training and skills acquisition, this program has the potential to transform lives, foster entrepreneurship, and contribute to the region’s economic growth.

Similar initiatives have been successful in the past, such as the Paaneah Foundation’s vocational training program, which empowered adolescents with skills in culinary arts, barbing, fashion, and basic computer skills.

The National Association of Seadogs’ Pyrates Confraternity, Abeokuta Chapter, in collaboration with Atlanta Georgia Chapter, USA, organized a Love Feast for 400 street children in Atan-Ota, Ogun State. The event, held at NUD Primary School, Atan-Ota, was part of the NAS Street Child Project, aimed at creating a brighter future for underprivileged children.

On Friday, February 21, 2025, the program commenced with a courtesy visit to the Olu of Atan-Ota, Oba Adeniji Akinyemi Isiyemi, who warmly welcomed the Association’s delegation led by Mr Ayodele Adebesin West region coordinator,Mr Olumide Afolabi Sorunmu First vice president and Ahmed Sunmonu association secretary. The traditional ruler commended their efforts in uplifting the less privileged and encouraged them to continue such impactful initiatives for the betterment of society. He also offered his royal blessings for the success of the program.

During the event, 400 children were treated to a lively atmosphere filled with music, entertainment, and refreshments, including breakfast, lunch, and supper. A highlight of the day was a dancing competition, where the most outstanding dancers were rewarded with cash prizes. In addition to the festivities, the children received moral guidance and words of encouragement, reinforcing the importance of hope and resilience in life.

Mr. Oluwatoyin Adekunle Peter, President of Abeokuta Chapter,Ogun State emphasized that the initiative aligns with the core mission of the National Association of Seadogs—to bring smiles to the faces of children and improve their well-being. He assured that the Association would continue to implement similar projects to uplift future generations.

The President of Atlanta Chapter , Georgia State,USA, Mr. Jude Oraegbu, expressed satisfaction in ensuring the children’s joy, reaffirming that society remains a place of hope for them and that more of such initiatives are still to come as part of the association’s usual practice.Love fest brings pediatric hunger problems to the front burner and thus fires off our advocacy components.

Oladotun Durodola, Project Director reaffirmed the Association’s commitment, both locally and internationally, to enhancing the welfare of underprivileged children. He highlighted several other initiatives consistently undertaken by the NAS, including the NAS Medical Mission.

Project Coordinator Emmanuel Okogbe called on well-meaning Nigerians and organizations to support similar projects, ensuring that vulnerable children receive the care and attention they deserve, ultimately fostering a greater sense of belonging in society.

The security arrangements, which were overseen by Mr. Samod Akindele, were of the highest standard.

The NAS Street Child Project has been operational since its inception and has consistently provided support to those in need. Unfortunately, a significant number of children in Nigeria are orphans, underprivileged, abused, abandoned, and struggling to survive. These vulnerable children are often exposed to criminal gangs on the streets, particularly in Atan, Ogun State.

The NAS Street Child Project has made notable strides in collaboration with esteemed organizations such as UNESCO and UNDFP. Notably, a Toyota Hiace Bus was generously donated to support their cause in Ikorodu, Lagos. Furthermore, their Life bikers embarked on an impressive 4,000km journey across Europe, from London to Rome and back to London, raising an impressive sum of ₦1,000,000.00.

The Pyrates Confraternity has a rich history of advocating for human rights and social justice, dating back to its founding in 1952 by seven students at the University College, Ibadan, including the distinguished Professor Wole Soyinka.

Former Lagos commissioner and Colenson Group founder, Asiwaju Dr. Michael Olawale-Cole, urged Nigerians to impact the world through selfless giving.

He made this call during his opening remarks at The Rotary Foundation Dinner & Dance, organised by District 9112 to celebrate Rotary International’s 120th anniversary.

Speaking at the Civic Centre, Lagos, on 23 February 2025, Olawale-Cole praised Rotary for its global humanitarian efforts, describing the organisation as a beacon of hope, kindness, and compassion. He highlighted how Rotary has touched millions of lives worldwide through its impactful initiatives.

District Governor and Afem Publishers Managing Director/CEO, Rotarian Olufemi Adenekan, expressed gratitude to donors and outlined The Rotary Foundation’s achievements since its establishment in 1917.

He emphasised how the foundation has transformed communities through various humanitarian projects.

Rotarian Omotunde Olaleye, chairman of the event’s planning committee and past president of the Rotary Club of Victoria Garden City, urged guests to continue supporting Rotary’s core focus areas: promoting peace, fighting diseases, providing clean water, saving mothers and children, and enhancing education.

“Your contributions help us empower communities, foster global understanding, improve health outcomes, and create educational opportunities,” he stated.

Themed “Rotary Foundation: The Heart of Giving,” the event featured entertainment, cultural performances, and networking opportunities.

A major highlight of the night was the prestigious humanitarian awards, honouring notable Nigerians for their philanthropic contributions.

Awardees included Asiwaju Olawale-Cole, Olori Amb. (Dr.) Temitope Enitan-Ogunwusi, Elder Urum Kalu Eke, Anthony & Pharm. Silvia Onwuere, and Dr. Taiwo Afolabi, chairman of SIFAX Group.

Others honoured included former Guinness Nigeria MD and Algorithm Media CEO Seni Adetu, Chief (Mrs.) Maria Phillips, Basorun Peter Ogunbayo, Dr. Augustine Onwumere, and Michael Ikenga, CEO of ITStack Limited.

The Rotary Foundation, established in 1917 with an initial donation of $26.50 by the Rotary Club of Kansas City, Missouri, has grown into one of the world’s largest and most respected humanitarian organisations.

Its mission remains to advance goodwill, peace, and global development through impactful service projects.