The wife of Lagos State Governor, Dr Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, yesterday, said that having leaders, who balance a successful career with a fulfilling family life, are essential for mentoring boys into becoming well-rounded professionals and family men in the future.

She, however, assured young boys of state government’s commitment to creating an enabling environment for their success and a brighter future. Sanwo-Olu also promised her commitment to the welfare and development of boys in the state as she flags off the third edition of the Lagos Boy Child Initiative (LBCI) residential workshop held, yesterday.

The governor’s wife, who spoke during a courtesy visit to the Deputy Governor, Dr Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, highlighted the LBCI’s role in shaping boys into responsible and well-rounded individuals.

She said that the programme, championed by her office, was designed to groom boys for purposeful living while building a network of future leaders and advocates.

The First Lady of Lagos State said that the programme aims to raise awareness about the rights and welfare of boys, promote educational opportunities, rehabilitate vulnerable boys, and groom a new generation of responsible and well-rounded young men that will contribute positively to the society, noting that 400 boys had directly benefited from past residential workshops, with many others influenced indirectly.

Meanwhile, Hamzat, who commended the LBCI, urged the boys to stay focused, take the opportunity seriously, and remain disciplined. He reminded them that they were selected from over one million students in the state, a privilege they should not take for granted. The deputy governor also warned them against drug abuse and emphasised the importance of education in shaping their future.