The Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Mr Mudashiru Obasa, encouraged public school students to embrace discipline and hard work, emphasising that they can achieve leadership positions regardless of their backgrounds.
Obasa made this statement on Monday while announcing a N50 million educational support package for 500 public primary and secondary school students across the state.
He also announced achildren’ss engagement and birthday event at the Assembly Complex in Ikeja, saying each beneficiary would receive N100,000 without conditions.
He explained that the initiative, covering students from thestate’ss six education districts, aims to ease parents’ financial burdens and promote academic excellence.
“Our presence here today is more than just a celebration; it is a calculated investment for the future”, Obasa said.
He added that the financial support is intended to help students with educational expenses and motivate them to pursue their goals.
This intervention is now an annual feature of the Speaker’s birthday celebrations.
Obasa urged students to develop a strong reading culture, remain focused, and avoid distractions that could affect their future.
“If you do not cultivate a strict reading culture today, tomorrow will be exceptionally difficult,” he said.
Reflecting on his journey from a public school classroom to leading the Lagos Assembly, Obasa encouraged students not to limit their ambitions due to their current circumstances.
“Look at me; as a child sitting in a public school classroom years ago, I never imagined I would head the parliament ofAfrica’ss third-largest economy.”
“You too can become the Governor of Lagos State or the President of Nigeria if you stay focused”, he said.
The Speaker also cautioned students against cultism, drug abuse, and criminal associations, urging them to make responsible choices and uphold positive values.
Officials from the Lagos State Universal Basic Education Board (LASUBEB) commended the initiative, describing the direct financial support to public school students as a commendable way to celebrate public officeholders’ birthdays.
Earlier during plenary, lawmakers celebrated Obasa ahead of the main events marking his birthday on Nov. 11.
Mr Aro Moshood Abiodun (APC, Ikorodu 2) led the tributes, describing Obasanjo’s tenure as remarkable and highlighting his contributions to legislative development and his record as Nigeria’s longest-serving State House of Assembly Speaker.
Mr LukmonSa’add Olumoh (APC, Ajeromi Ifelodun Constituency 1) also commended the Speaker’s efforts to strengthen the legislature, especially his successful advocacy for the Assembly’s financial autonomy.
Olumoh stated that this achievement would promote institutional independence, accountability, and effective legislative administration.
Adedamola Kasunmu (APC, Ikeja Constituency 2), speaking for his constituents and family, described Obasa as a committed leader and exceptional statesman whose dedication to public service inspires confidence.
He expressed optimism that the Speaker will continue to advance the Assembly through purposeful leadership and people-oriented policies.
Earlier, Mr Ajani Owolabi (APC, Lagos Mainland 1), speaking for Lagos Central Senatorial District, also praisedObasa’ss commitment to leadership, excellence, and state development.
Other lawmakers acknowledged his contributions to effective representation, legislative development, and delivering democratic dividends to Lagos residents.
