Boys Future, Boys Challenge: BFBC SUMMIT

Project Report: Boys Future, Boys Challenge [BFBC]: Summit '24-IKORODU EDITION

The Boys Future, Boys Challenge (BFBC) Summit '24 was held on May 18, 2024, at the 500-Seater Auditorium of Lagos State University of Science and Technology, Ikorodu Lagos. Designed by Ola Akinwe, Founder and President of the Boys Mentoring Advocacy Network (BMAN), the summit focused on exploring the "CEO"—Challenges, Expectations, and Opportunities—of the journey from boyhood to manhood.

 Objectives:

- To identify and address the various challenges boys face as they transition to adulthood.
- To set realistic expectations for their development and future.
- To explore the opportunities available for boys to maximize their potential and lead fulfilling lives.

 Endorsements and Support:

The BFBC Summit received robust endorsements from key stakeholders, including:
- Lagos State Ministry of Youth and Social Development
- Lagos State Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education
- HRM Oba Semiudeen Orimadegun Kasali, the Adeboruwa of Igbogbo Kingdom, who served as the Royal Father of the Day.

 Attendance:

The summit was well-attended by:
- Delegates from both public and private schools.
- Students from Lagos State University of Science and Technology, who also served as the hosting partners along with BMAN.
- Representatives from the Nigeria Correctional Service and the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency.
- Members of the Nigeria Union of Teachers.

 Dignitaries and Keynote Speakers:

Prominent dignitaries and keynote speakers included:
- Otunba Lanre Kuye, Director of Information and Public Relations at Lagos State University of Science and Technology.
- Mr. Rotimi Erogbogbo, Chairman of the Ikorodu-Oga Development Association (IKODASS).
- Representatives from Ikorodu North Local Council Development Area and Ijede Local Council Development Area.

 Key Highlights:

- Royal Endorsement: HRM Oba Semiudeen Orimadegun Kasali, in his remarks, emphasized the need for collective effort to support the cause, urging all stakeholders to join forces to help boys live fulfilling lives

.
- Community Engagement: Ola Akinwe expressed gratitude for the success of the maiden edition and announced plans to make the BFBC Summit a recurring community-based event held in various communities to maximize its impact.

Feedback and Outcomes:

Participants and delegates expressed their delight in attending the BFBC Summit and appreciated the platform for addressing critical developmental issues affecting young boys. The summit successfully met its objectives by fostering discussions around the "CEO" aspects of transitioning from boyhood to manhood.

 Conclusion:

The inaugural BFBC Summit '24 has set a strong precedent for future events, advocating for a community-based approach to mentoring and supporting boys. The event has highlighted the importance of collaboration among community leaders, educators, and policymakers to facilitate the positive development of young boys as they transition into responsible adulthood.

 Future Plans:

Recurring Events: Plans are underway to make the BFBC Summit an annual event that will be held in various communities.

Expanded Reach: Efforts will be made to engage more stakeholders from different regions and sectors to broaden the impact.

Sustained Advocacy: Continued focus on addressing the challenges and maximizing the opportunities for boys to ensure they lead fulfilling and productive lives.

 Acknowledgments:

Special thanks to all donors, endorsing bodies, dignitaries, speakers, and attendees for their invaluable contributions to the success of the BFBC Summit '24.