NYSC Member Concludes Community Project in Lokoja, Empowers 887 Female Students »

A serving corps member in Kogi State, Tosin Toluwaloju with state code (KG/24B/0206), has concluded the grand finale of her personal community project at Crowther Memorial Secondary School, Lokoja. The project, tagged Future Forward Project, an ambitious initiative designed to equip secondary school girls with vital life skills, career mentorship, and menstrual health education. The theme of the finale; “Ditch the Cram: Nurturing Thinkers,” aimed to promote critical thinking and personal development among students.

The Project which began in January 2025 with sensitization programs engaged a cumulative of 887 female students from different schools in various training sessions on personal hygiene, self-ambition and actualization, character development, critical thinking, and more.

Speaking at the grand finale which took place at Crowther Memorial College Hall in Lokoja, the convener, Tosin Toluwaloju, explained how she successfully carried out sensitization campaigns across six secondary schools in Lokoja. She also expressed sincere appreciation to her sponsors for their immense contributions to the success of the initiative.

The Kogi State Coordinator of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Mr. Femi Osunboghun, commended the initiative and encouraged young people to emulate such efforts to foster development within their communities.

Additionally, the Special Adviser on Media to the Kogi State Governor, Ismail Isah, expressed delight with the project. He pledged the government’s continued support for corps members and their leadership in the state.

As part of the event, six secondary schools participated in a debate competition: Holy Trinity School Lokoja, Alasan Secondary School, Crowther Memorial Secondary School, Muslim Community Secondary School Lokoja, GYB Secondary School, and Bishop Delise College.

Bishop Delise College emerged as the overall winner, receiving a cash prize of ₦100,000, along with writing materials, school bags, and an opportunity to work with a non-governmental organization. GYB Secondary School secured the first runner-up position and was awarded ₦50,000, writing materials, and school bags. Holy Trinity School Lokoja placed third, receiving ₦30,000 in cash, writing materials, and school bags.

The Future Forward Project has set a new benchmark for youth engagement and educational transformation in Kogi State. Its holistic approach combining educational support, financial assistance, and intellectual stimulation is a strategic demonstration of the power of targeted community initiatives in shaping the next generation through education and empowerment.