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Stepping Towards a Healthier Tomorrow: The Waka Revolution

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Stepping Towards a Healthier Tomorrow: The Waka Revolution

By Ifeoma Ikem

The sun rose over the bustling streets of Lagos, casting a warm glow over the sea of walkers gathered at the Catholic Church on Admiralty Road, Lekki Phase I. The air was alive with the sound of chatter and the rustling of feet as participants prepared to embark on a 9.4km journey of wellness.

It was the last Saturday in the month of March.

At the forefront of this movement was Lorenz Mba, founder of the Waka Community International Foundation, who stood tall, his eyes shining with passion. “Today has finally come. Let’s waka not just for ourselves, but for our loved ones, our communities, and our nation,” he declared, his voice ringing out across the crowd. Apparently, the road walk was also a tribute to the late Dr Adetokunbo Alakija – a staunch advocate of health and wellness. Dr Alakija was a pioneer member of Waka and Managing Director of Q-Life Family Clinic.

The walk, hosted by Waka in collaboration with Q-Life Family Clinic and Health Emergency Initiative, traversed Lekki and Ikoyi axis of the state.

As the walkers set off, the city came alive with the sound of footsteps, a symphony of movement that echoed through the streets. The Waka Revolution had begun, a movement that sought to transform the lives of Nigerians, one step at a time.

Pascal Achunine, Medical Director of HEI, walked alongside the crowd, his heart swelling with pride. “Dr. Alakija, the man we honour today, was a champion of healthy living,” he said, his voice filled with emotion. “His legacy lives on through this walk, and we’re committed to carrying the torch forward.”

Dr. Olayinka Olowolu, Medical Director of Q-Life, nodded in agreement. “Dr. Alakija was a true visionary, who understood the importance of preventive healthcare. We’re proud to continue his work, inspiring Nigerians to take control of their health.”

As the walkers made their way through the city, they were joined by others, each with their own story, their own struggles, and their own triumphs. Together, they formed a tapestry of resilience, a testament to the human spirit’s capacity to persevere.

Amidst this crowd were numerous youth who leapt, jumped, dancing even to the popular tunes belted out by the DeeJay in the leading vehicle, as they took copious pictures of their journey. Many elderly people in their ’60s and ’70s, in determination not to be left behind, forged ahead with unflinching, but set faces.

The Waka Revolution was more than just a walk; it was a movement, a call to action, a reminder that the power to create change lies within each of us. With over 55,000 members in 47 countries joining the locals in solidarity walk, the Waka Foundation led the charge towards a healthier, happier tomorrow.

As the walkers reached the finish line, exhausted but exhilarated, they knew that they had taken the first step towards a brighter future. And as they looked up at the sky, they knew that Dr. Alakija was smiling down on them, proud of the legacy he had inspired, and the revolution that would continue to transform lives, one step at a time.

Stepping Towards a Healthier Tomorrow: The Waka Revolution

By Ifeoma Ikem

The Waka Revolution was not just about walking; it was about creating a culture of wellness, a culture that encouraged individuals to take control of their health. With the Waka International App, which rewards users for walking, the movement was making it easier for people to make healthy choices.

As the dust settled on the 9.4km walk, one thing was clear: the Waka Revolution was here to stay. With its message of hope, resilience, and determination, it was inspiring a nation to take control of its health, one step at a time.

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Mayor of Brampton Honours IBD Foundation

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Mayor of Brampton Honours IBD Foundation

 

The City of Brampton has recognised Alhaji Ibrahim Dende Egungbohun for his remarkable contributions to a transformative initiative designed to empower women through essential skill-building for independence and self-reliance. This formal acknowledgment took place on August 15, 2025, in Mayor Patrick Brown’s office during a visit from the Africa Made Economic Growth Initiative (AMEGI) team. Represented by his wife, Mrs. Omolara Egungbohun, Alhaji Dende received the certification amidst an atmosphere of gratitude and celebration. Mayor Brown presented the certificate personally and extended his commendations to the IBD Foundation for their relentless pursuit of women’s empowerment, development, and their philanthropic efforts.

The Certificate of Recognition underscored Egungbohun’s unwavering dedication and tireless efforts to create diverse opportunities for women to enhance their skills, develop their potential, and ultimately prosper in their personal and professional lives. As a philanthropist, esteemed businessman, and influential social figure, his impact in Nigeria and beyond is both profound and far-reaching.

Egungbohun’s generosity and steadfast commitment have significantly bolstered the confidence of program participants, facilitating their ability to envision and construct brighter futures while strengthening community ties. In his acknowledgment, Mayor Brown stated, “Your dedication uplifts those working to inspire others,” highlighting the deep and lasting influence of Egungbohun’s work in empowering women.

Mayor of Brampton Honours IBD Foundation

This initiative is not just a standalone effort; it harmonizes perfectly with Brampton’s broader mission to advocate for and uplift marginalized groups within the community. Egungbohun’s contributions serve as a vital catalyst for transformative change, offering practical skills that enhance employability while reshaping the economic and social framework for women. Through an assortment of workshops, mentorship programs, and robust support networks, he has fostered an encouraging environment where women can fully explore and realize their potential.

As Brampton steadfastly commits itself to promoting inclusivity and equity, leaders like Egungbohun exemplify how collaboration, vision, and genuine enthusiastic engagement can effectively turn hopes and aspirations into tangible realities. The public acknowledgment from the city not only honors individual efforts but also sends a resounding message, inspiring other community leaders and stakeholders to step up and invest in grassroots empowerment initiatives that uplift and serve those in need. This recognition is a clarion call for collective action toward a more equitable and inclusive society.

 

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Tayo Folorunsho Nominated as Celebrity Special Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Corps

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Tayo Folorunsho Nominated as Celebrity Special Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Corps

Tayo Folorunsho Nominated as Celebrity Special Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Corps

 

 

Tayo Folorunsho, renowned youth ambassador and edutainment advocate, has been officially nominated to be decorated as a Celebrity Special Marshal (CSM) of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC).

 

Tayo Folorunsho Nominated as Celebrity Special Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Corps

 

The unveiling took place at the recently concluded FRSC Youth Hangout, held in celebration of the United Nations International Youth Day at the National Judicial Institute, Abuja.

 

 

Over the years, Tayo Folorunsho has distinguished himself as a passionate youth leader, consistently driving initiatives that inspire and empower young people. His recognition as a Celebrity Special Marshal is not only a mark of honor but also a call to responsibility—championing road safety, responsibility, and positive change within society.

 

Tayo Folorunsho Nominated as Celebrity Special Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Corps

 

Speaking on the recognition, Tayo Folorunsho emphasized:

“This is more than an honor; it is a responsibility to use my voice and influence to promote safety, responsibility, and positive change on our roads.”

 

This milestone reinforces his commitment to youth empowerment, social responsibility, and nation-building through edutainment and advocacy.

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FRSC Partners with Edutainment First International to Drive Road Safety Awareness in Nigeria

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FRSC Partners with Edutainment First International to Drive Road Safety Awareness in Nigeria

FRSC Partners with Edutainment First International to Drive Road Safety Awareness in Nigeria

 

In a country where road accidents claim thousands of lives each year—most of them young people—the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) and Edutainment First International have launched a bold new initiative to change the narrative. On Thursday, August 14, both organizations hosted the maiden Road Safety Youth Hangout at the National Judicial Institute, Abuja.

 

FRSC Partners with Edutainment First International to Drive Road Safety Awareness in Nigeria

 

The event, held to mark United Nations International Youth Day 2025, brought together more than 300 participants, including members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), students, youth leaders, and community representatives. Unlike traditional road safety campaigns, the hangout was designed as an interactive forum blending education and entertainment, where young Nigerians could learn, innovate, and commit to safer road practices.

 

 

According to FRSC data, young people remain the most vulnerable demographic in road traffic crashes across Nigeria—an urgent concern this initiative aims to tackle. Through storytelling, innovation, and collaborative problem-solving, the Road Safety Youth Hangout sought to transform young Nigerians into advocates for safety within their communities.

 

 

“This is not just about rules and regulations,” said one of the organizers. “It’s about equipping young people with the tools and the voice to change Nigeria’s road culture.”

 

Aligned with the UN’s 2025 theme, “Local Youth Actions for the SDGs and Beyond,” the program underscored the critical role of young Nigerians in advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those connected to health, safety, and responsible citizenship.

 

 

By focusing on empowerment rather than enforcement, FRSC and Edutainment First International signaled a fresh approach to road safety: investing in the next generation as the real drivers of change. The belief is simple yet powerful—an informed and empowered youth population is key to reducing accidents and saving lives.

 

 

For many participants, the hangout was more than just an event; it was a wake-up call. With interactive sessions infused with music, drama, and dialogue, young Nigerians were challenged to reflect on their daily habits as road users and to embrace leadership as advocates for safer communities.

 

 

As one youth participant reflected:

“Road safety isn’t just the job of the FRSC. It’s our responsibility too—because we are the ones most at risk.”

 

The maiden edition of the Road Safety Youth Hangout may have ended, but the movement it launched has only just begun. Its message was unmistakable: Nigeria’s fight for safer roads must be youth-led, collaborative, and relentless.

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