On Friday, September 19, 2025, the Lagos New Emerald Lions Club, District 404B2 Nigeria, in collaboration with Lagos Indiana Lions Club (led by Lion Kehinde Dawuda, MJF, NLCF) and Lagos British Lions Club (led by Lion Soga Okikioluwa, MJF, NLCF), marked International Literacy Day with a heartwarming “Back to School” project at Ikosi Nursery and Primary School, Ketu, Lagos.
The school compound was transformed into a scene of excitement as pupils many grinning from ear to ear lined up gleefully to receive school bags, exercise books, mathematical sets, and other essential learning materials. Cheers and call-and-response songs led by the head teacher filled the air, amplifying the festive mood and inspiring both pupils and staff.
Lion Kadiri Olaide Bilkis, NLCF, President of Lagos New Emerald Lions Club, explained that the initiative was born out of a long-standing commitment to support public school pupils.
“Many of these children have had to carry their books in polythene bags. When we first visited this school two years ago, we saw their challenges and promised to return. With the new school year beginning and International Literacy Day in September, we felt this was the perfect time to honor that promise,” she said, adding that the project is one of several planned for the club’s service year.
Head Teacher Mrs. Akin Ojo T.A. expressed heartfelt gratitude, noting the profound impact the gesture would have on morale and attendance.
“What the Lions Club has done today will motivate our pupils to take their studies seriously and to show up to school with pride. In fact, a new pupil who came with her mother to inquire about admission this morning begged not to leave after witnessing the distribution, she wanted to be part of the celebration. That shows just how impactful this kind of support can be,” she remarked. She also called on more civic-minded organizations to support public schools to help reduce the number of out-of-school children.
The event drew several Lions members, including Lion Wemimo Jaiyeola, NLCF; Lion Damilola Giwa Afolabi, NLCF; Lion Babajide Awoderu, MJF; Lion Raymond Ayodele, NLCF; Lion Oluwatosin Ijaduola, MJF, NLCF; Lion Olatunji (President, Ede Royal Lions Club); and District Administrator Lion Adedeji Olukokun, PMJF, NLCF, who serves as Region 8 Director overseeing the diaspora-based clubs.
The active involvement of the Lagos Indiana and Lagos British Lions Clubs underscored how these diaspora clubs continue to prove that distance and geography are no barriers to meaningful service and community impact. The successful project was a vibrant celebration of literacy, service, and hope for a brighter future for young learners.
