GAIYD Empowers 2,380 Boys in 2024, Restates Commitment to Community Development 

GAIYD Empowers 2,380 Boys in 2024, Restates Commitment to Community Development 

JOEL OLADELE, Abuja

The Great Achievers Initiative for Youth and Community Development (GAIYD), had successfully empowered 2,380 boys through its various initiatives in 2024.

Celebrating its commitment to uplifting young boys and fostering community development at the highly anticipated Great Achievers Summit and Award of Excellence 2024, held on November 16 at Transcorp Hilton Abuja, the leader of the organization, Amb. (Dr.) Hillary Akpua, said the summit served as a platform to highlight the organization’s inspiring achievements over the past year.

In his opening address, Dr. Akpua expressed immense gratitude to his team and the distinguished awardees recognized for their contributions to human and community development.

“This year marks the second edition of our Great Achievers Summit. We look forward to many more years of celebration and community impact,” he remarked, setting the tone for a day filled with recognition and inspiration.

A significant highlight of the summit was the announcement of GAIYD’s outreach efforts during the year, which includes; school sensitization exercises and a national essay competition celebrating the International Day of the Boy Child, which engaged nearly 38 schools across the country.

Dr. Akpua emphasized the importance of such efforts: “Empowering our younger generation, particularly boys, is pivotal for the growth and development of our communities. We must equip them with the tools and knowledge they need to succeed.”

Among the honored guests were several prominent figures in society, including Grand Patrons, His Excellency Barr. Mainsara Kogo Umar and Hon. Chambers Okorie, as well as Grand Matron Her Excellency Iyom Dr. Mrs. Ajia C. Ogugua Agagbo.

The year’s awards celebrated excellence across diverse categories, acknowledging individuals who have made extraordinary contributions to society, including Distinguished Senator Victor Umeh, honored as the Legislator of the Year, and Her Excellency Iyom Dr. Mrs. Ajia C. Ogugua Agagbo, recognized as the Woman of the Decade.

The Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede, who participated in the event, urged youths to embrace lives of purpose and integrity. Quoting his representative, ACEII Aisha Mohammed, Olukoyede stated, “It is vital that our youth strive for higher values and shun economic and financial crimes; education is key to instilling this foundation.” He reiterated the importance of collective responsibility in shaping the future. “Leadership is not about titles but about impact. Together, we can create a brighter future for our nation,” he said.

The summit also included a thought-provoking panel discussion focused on “The Problems Faced by the Boy Child in Society,” emphasizing a need for critical attention to male youths, who have been historically neglected.

As the father of the day, the Wakili of Zauzau stated the role of home values in nurturing responsible future leaders.

“We cannot underestimate the role of families in shaping our youth,” he stated. “Good values must start from the home to cultivate positive national values.”

Keynote speaker Professor Julius Onyedemire echoed this sentiment, asserting that leadership must be modeled at all levels. “The future of our nation lies in the hands of our youth. It is not just about those in power; every individual can make a difference,” he declared, urging the audience to inspire and motivate one another toward a shared vision.

As the Great Achievers Summit came to a close, the 2024 report by GAIYD showcased the organization’s dedication to community service, highlighting courtesy visits to schools, partnerships, and innovative programs aimed at fostering societal change.

In a reflective note, Dr. Akpua closed the event by restating GAIYD’s commitment to continuous empowerment and community development. “Together, we can drive positive change, enhance lives, and nurture future leaders in Nigeria. We extend our gratitude to our donors, partners, and stakeholders for their unwavering support in this journey.”

The summit not only honored outstanding achievements but also set the stage for future endeavors aimed at the betterment of society and its youth.