NL Reader/Corper: Odunayo Adeeko Ibrahim shares her Personal Community Development Project

I am Odunayo Ibrahim, a corp member with state code 'LA/15A/0024', serving at University of Lagos, Akoka, Yaba.

My Personal Community Development project was informed by the pitiable sights of the pupils of Olimo Nursery and Primary School which is located at 20, Olumo Street, Onike, Yaba. I believe my crossing paths with these pupils was not a coincidence but rather a divine arrangement as my passion has always been to put smiles on the faces of people especially children.

The NYSC 3 Week camp orientation also contributed in no little way to making this project a reality. At the orientation camp, the state coordinator, Mr Cyril Akanemehe, laid emphasis on the importance of community development service. He made it clear that we don’t have to wait until we have  lots of money before we can make a difference in the lives of people. What he said changed my outlook totally. Consequently, I realized I can use the NYSC scheme as a platform to actualize my dream.

 

Did I face any challenges? Of course. As the saying goes, “Nothing good comes easy”. My original intention was to carry out a renovation of the school – changing of classrooms windows, ceilings, buying tables and chairs for the class teachers, painting of the school to mention but a few. This became a mirage as organizations I wrote for support and sponsorship did not respond probably due to the economic downturn in the country. When it became clear that my original plan may not see the light of day, I decided to go for something on a lighter budget. The provision of school uniforms and ceiling fans to the school. This turned out well.

 

Nollywood actress OmaNnadi releases sexy pictures as she turns a year older

Uber India's first female taxi driver found dead in her home...

png" width="400">

With a sponsor backing me, I was able to provide & present fifty school uniforms and 11 fans to Olimo Memorial Nursery and Primary School. The presentation of the school uniforms, fans took place in one of the classrooms of the school & was attended by Officials from NYSC, my local Govt & also PPA.

The school uniforms were presented to the pupils and the fans to their head teacher. The fifty(50) Children who benefitted from the scheme were immediately asked to put off their old school uniforms so they can wear the new ones.

 

To say the event was a memorable one is an understatement if the expression of joy on the faces of the pupil is anything to go by. No sooner had they won their new uniforms than they ran to their peers to show them off. After the presentation, the school electrician was called upon to fix the ceiling fans in the six class rooms where they were needed.

 

I believe what I have done is just a tip of the iceberg. I look forward to more opportunities in the nearest and distant future to touch lives positively. This is also a call out to everyone. You can change the lives of others even through the smallest gestures. Never hesitate to help others when you can. Thanks & God Bless.