A community-focused non-governmental organisation, the Youth Initiative Forum (YIF), at the weekend organised a special Ramadan gathering in Abeokuta to appreciate its members and attract prospective participants to its humanitarian activities.
The event, held during the ongoing Ramadan, drew a large turnout of residents from different communities across the city, including a significant number of persons living with disabilities who came to show solidarity with the organisation’s mission of social inclusion and community development.
The programme also served as an award ceremony recognising individuals who have demonstrated commitment to grassroots development and community service.
Leading the list of honourees was Barrister Abiodun Ibrahim Adekunjo, the Legal Adviser to the Youth Initiative Forum, whose professional guidance and support to the organisation were acknowledged as vital to its operations.
Other award recipients included Mr. Ojediran Lateef Ishola, Youth Representative of Orelope Community Development Association (CDA), Olomore; Mr. Bello Olaseni Lateef, Proprietor of Latland Group of Schools; and Engr. Salmon Olamilekan Alawiye, Director and President of Hope Excel.
Community leaders were also recognised for their roles in strengthening local development initiatives. Among them were Alhaja Aminu Fausat Aina, Chairperson of Ifedayo CDA and Golden Women Circle, Olomore; Chief Mrs. Oluwatoyin Oluwafunmilayo Adeyemi, Vice Chairperson of Ifedayo CDA; Chief Mrs. Kotoye Beatrice Olutomi, Woman Leader of Orelope CDA; and Chief Mrs. Alamu Oluwafunmilayo Ruth, Woman Leader of Ifedayo CDA.
Also honoured were Chief Mrs. Ogundimu Ajoke Abosede, described as the “Mother” of the Youth Initiative Forum, and Comrade Mrs. Aremu Sikirat Temitope, a committed member of the organisation.
Speaking during the programme, organisers emphasised that the awards were meant to celebrate individuals whose dedication to community service aligns with the vision of the initiative.
The group, headed by Karin Opeyemi Oluomo, reiterated its commitment to empowering youths, supporting vulnerable groups and promoting sustainable community development.
The leadership of the forum used the occasion to call on well-meaning individuals, corporate organisations and government agencies to partner with the initiative in its mission to uplift the lives of people at the grassroots.
According to the organisers, poverty eradication and community development require collective action, stressing that the Youth Initiative Forum remains open to collaborations that will create opportunities for youths, women and persons living with disabilities.
They urged members of the public to join hands with the organisation to expand its humanitarian interventions and strengthen support systems for underserved communities in Ogun State.
The event concluded with prayers for peace, unity and continued progress in the state, as participants expressed optimism that collaborative community efforts can significantly reduce poverty and improve the quality of life for many residents.