CITIZENS COMPASS— In commemoration of the 2025 International Men’s Day, IHS Nigeria has hosted an outreach event at Ifesowapo Aboru Secondary School, Ipaja, Lagos State. The initiative was aimed at inspiring and empowering young students through conversations centered on leadership, respect, mental health, responsibility, and gender equity.
Welcoming the IHS team to the school, Director and Principal of Ifesowapo Aboru Secondary School, Giwa Muyideen, expressed appreciation for the company’s ongoing commitment to educational advancement.
“We are deeply honoured to have IHS Nigeria here to commemorate International Men’s Day with us. We thank them for what they have done, what they continue to do, and what they will yet do for our school and community. He said. “
He further emphasized the importance of encouraging students to pursue careers in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM), noting that such fields provide the strength and creativity needed to innovate and excel.
In his introductory remarks, Associate Director, Legal, IHS Nigeria, Gbenga Bello, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to fostering positive values and supporting young people within its host communities. He explained that celebrating International Men’s Day in a school environment was intentional, as it provides an opportunity to engage boys at a formative age on themes of responsibility, leadership, and wellbeing.
“International Men’s Day reminds us of the role men and boys play in building stronger, more compassionate societies. At IHS Nigeria, we believe that empowering young minds, especially through education, mentorship, and value-based conversations is one of the most meaningful ways we can contribute to our community. We are here because the future we want begins with the boys we guide today.” He said.
The outreach featured two key sessions, an interactive discussion and a mentorship dialogue. The interactive session, facilitated by Morakinyo Fadipe, Associate Director, Human Resources at IHS Nigeria Limited, encouraged students to think critically about decision-making, responsibility, and respect for themselves and others. He emphasized that the choices they make ultimately shape who they become and that true leadership begins with self-awareness, responsibility, empathy, and respect in everyday actions.
The mentorship dialogue, led by Adepoju Adebusayo, Senior Specialist, Human Resources at IHS Nigeria, focused on resilience, making wise choices, and modelling positive behaviour in society. He drew from personal experiences to remind students that challenges are opportunities for growth and stressed the importance of perseverance and consistent effort in achieving their goals.
The event concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks from Giwa Muyideen, who expressed deep appreciation for IHS Nigeria’s consistent support for educational development. He noted that the school is proud of its partnership with the company, describing IHS Nigeria as a reliable ally in empowering students and improving school facilities, and shared optimism for even greater collaboration in the future.
This outreach is one of many initiatives under IHS Nigeria’s community development programs, which continue to support schools, promote gender balance, and nurture leadership skills among young Nigerians.
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