By Sade Adewale
The governor of Ondo State, Dr Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has commended the Boys Brigade for its longstanding contributions to youth development, discipline and the promotion of moral values in Nigeria.
Aiyedatiwa, who was represented by his Deputy, Dr Olayide Adelami, while receiving the organisation in his office, acknowledged the organisation’s impact over the years, saying that its commitment to training young people had helped instil values capable of shaping responsible citizens and future leaders.
The governor described them as “soldiers of Christ,” noting that the discipline, resilience and training imparted to members were important qualities for building responsible men and women.
He said, “Let me also acknowledge the great work that the Boys Brigade has been doing over the years. I learnt that this formidable international organisation has been in existence since 1883. It has come a long way and with this reflection, I wonder about the lives you have impacted over the years.
“What you are doing in Nigeria is not quantifiable. You have added values to this country.”
Aiyedatiwa also referenced the biblical injunction to train children in the way of the Lord, saying the impact of the Boys Brigade could be seen in the character and discipline of its members.
He said the organisation’s activities had continued to contribute to the development of young people, adding that its emphasis on discipline and resilience would help members become responsible fathers and mothers in the future.
The governor appreciated the Boys Brigade for choosing Ondo State to host its activities, noting that the organisation’s presence would also have positive economic implications for the state.
He further commended Christian bodies and other stakeholders for supporting the organisation, describing the Boys Brigade as an inspiration to many Nigerians.
Aiyedatiwa wished the organisation a successful Annual General Meeting, which he said would provide an opportunity to review its achievements and chart a new course for greater impact.
He said, “You are hosting your AGM tomorrow to reflect on your past achievements and also open a new frontier to add value to what you have been doing. I wish you a successful outing tomorrow.”
Also speaking, the National President of the Boys Brigade Nigeria, Prof. Samson Duna, commended the Ondo State government for its support for the organisation and for providing an enabling environment to host its Annual General Meeting in the state.
Duna gave the commendation when he led members of the organisation to pay a courtesy visit to the deputy governor of Ondo State, Dr Olayide Adelami, ahead of the AGM.
The national president described the Boys’ Brigade as a Christian, inter-denominational organisation committed to training young people to become God-fearing and responsible members of society.
He reiterated that the organisation seeks to promote moral discipline and reduce social vices by instilling good values in children and young people.
He said the Boys’ Brigade’s mission was to establish its presence in every church where Christianity is preached, noting that the organisation had continued to expand across denominations.
Duna disclosed that the AGM, which is held annually, would feature several activities, including Bible quizzes for junior and senior members, as well as an opening ceremony featuring drills and parade displays by the Ondo State Council.
He said the AGM would bring together representatives from the 36 states of the federation, with each state expected to send five delegates, alongside national officers and observers.
Duna also praised the deputy governor for his humanitarian activities, particularly his support for widows and vulnerable members of society, describing such interventions as being in line with the values promoted by the Boys’ Brigade.
He said the organisation was ready to partner with individuals and institutions working to support vulnerable people and help develop responsible future leaders.