Ikorodu Students Unite for Knowledge, Culture and Innovation at 2025 NAIDS Fair & Summit
By Emmanuel Daniji
The National Association of Ikorodu Division Students (NAIDS National) on Thursday hosted the 2025 Ikorodu Division Students’ Fair & Summit, a vibrant intellectual and cultural gathering designed to equip young people across the division with fresh knowledge, opportunities, and inspiration.
Held under the leadership of the NAIDS National President, Comr. Ogunbowale Olatayo Bodunrin, the summit carried the theme “Harnessing Knowledge for a Sustainable Future: Exploring Education, Technology & Culture.” The full-day event brought together students, innovators, community leaders, and stakeholders in an atmosphere charged with learning, creativity, and forward-thinking dialogue.
The summit featured a blend of activities, from a keynote address and panel discussions to cultural showcases, business pitch sessions, and an award ceremony recognising outstanding contributors to youth and educational development. Dignitaries in attendance included Dr. Olumide Olushola Metiletu, Mayor Muyideen Sanwoola, Otunba Niyi Banjoko, Mrs. Odumbo Monsurat, Comr. Shofowora Olumide, and Comr. Hassan Basiru, alongside several students’ leaders from institutions across the division.
Declaring the summit open, NAIDS President Comr. Ogunbowale described the gathering as a historic moment in the collective quest to strengthen youth capacity across Ikorodu Division. He said the theme was not just a topic but a call to action—one that challenges young people to view education as a pathway to transformation, technology as a bridge to global relevance, and culture as a heritage that must be preserved and celebrated.
He encouraged students to seize every opportunity presented by the summit to learn, collaborate, and expand their horizons, adding that the division’s future will be shaped by the level of knowledge and engagement displayed by its young people. He also expressed gratitude to the summit’s partners, speakers, and sponsors for investing in the development of the next generation.
“Your investment in the youth is an investment in the future of Ikorodu Division,” he said, assuring them that their support would leave a lasting impact.
Delivering a thought-provoking presentation on “21st Century Emerging Trends in Technology for Undergraduates,” Mayor Muyideen Sanwoola highlighted Education, Technology, and Economics as the three major pillars shaping youth advancement. He explained that although technology offers limitless opportunities—such as improved problem-solving tools and global collaboration—it must not replace human reasoning or creativity.
He urged students to embrace innovation without losing discipline, critical thinking, and the drive for personal competence.
“Technology provides solutions, but we must still refine it,” he said, reminding the audience that Artificial Intelligence and other digital tools must be shaped by human purpose and direction.
“A.I is not an end; it is a means to an end,” he added.
On the theme “21st Century Emerging Trends in Education for Undergraduates,” Dr. Olumide Olusola Metiletu encouraged students to adopt a proactive, opportunity-driven mindset. He stressed that in an era where knowledge evolves rapidly, undergraduates must position themselves strategically by being curious, adaptable, and intentional about growth.
He described emerging global trends—such as digital learning, experiential education, interdisciplinary studies, and skills-focused programs—as gateways for students who are ready to embrace them.
“As intellectuals, every trend must be an opportunity, not just an advantage,” he noted.
A major highlight of the summit was a deeply engaging panel session titled “Preserving Our Roots: The Legacy & Heritage of Ikorodu Division.” Moderated by Mr. Waliu Adeyeri, the panel featured Mrs. Odumbo Monsurat Olabisi and Otunba Olaniyi O. Banjoko, the Bobakeye of Ikorodu.
Otunba Banjoko underscored the importance of cultural identity in shaping community pride, urging students to reconnect with their origins and keep the traditions of Ikorodu alive.
“Our root must be our heritage everywhere,” he said. “There are many people who cannot even speak their language.”
Mrs. Odumbo echoed his sentiments, explaining that embracing her Ikorodu heritage has opened countless opportunities and strengthened her confidence.
“Knowing our roots does not make us fetish,” she said. “It gives us knowledge.”
The summit concluded with an award presentation ceremony celebrating outstanding leaders who have contributed to youth development, education, culture, and community progress across the division. Among the honourees were Dr. Nurudeen Yekinni Agbaje, Otunba Olaniyi O. Banjoko, Mrs. Odumbo Monsurat, Mr. Waliu Olalekan, Engr. Tokunbo Oyenuga, Mr. Obafemi Ogunlana, ESV (Dr.) Kunle Awolaja, Hon. (Dr.) Aro Moshood Abiodun, Dr. Oladega Caleb Adebogun, Hon. Gbolahan Ogunleye, Mr. Taiwo Salami (for IDPIL), Mr. Waheed Kasali, and Hon. Motunrayo Gbadebo-Alogba.
Participants hailed the summit as a transformative experience—one that blended knowledge, culture, leadership, and innovation into a platform that truly reflects the aspirations of the Ikorodu student community. The 2025 edition reaffirmed NAIDS National’s commitment to shaping a stronger, more enlightened, and empowered generation across Ikorodu Division.
