Inspiring the Next Generation: A Transformative Experience with Junior Achievement Nigeria and ExxonMobil Foundation

By: Joseph Edafe Opoggen

As a Marketing and Communications volunteer for Junior Achievement Nigeria (JAN), I had the privilege of participating in a remarkable event in collaboration with the ExxonMobil Foundation. This program aimed to inspire and empower young minds, and its impact on the students and myself was truly profound.

The event kicked off with opening remarks from Olaolu Akogun, Acting Executive Director of JA Nigeria, which set a positive tone for the day. Following this, a thought-provoking panel session was moderated by Tobiloba Olaosun, the Marketing and Communications Manager at JA Nigeria. The ExxonMobil staff panelists shared invaluable insights and experiences, leaving the students inspired and eager to learn more.

One of the standout moments was when Mr. Oge Udeagha, ExxonMobil's Regional Communications Manager for Africa, delivered a heartfelt congratulatory message to the program winners. The room was filled with joy and pride as we celebrated their achievements.

What struck me most was the incredible enthusiasm and engagement of students from various schools, including Government Secondary School Wuye, Kubwa, Pegi, Kwali, and Government Science Technical College Abaji. Their energy was infectious, and it was clear they were motivated to make a difference in their communities.

The day concluded with powerful closing remarks from Hajiya Fatima Wali, Deputy Director of the Entrepreneurship Unit of the FCT Department of Science, Technology, and Innovation. Her words left us all with a profound sense of purpose and a renewed commitment to empowering the next generation of leaders.

This experience deepened my passion for marketing and communications, and I am truly grateful to JA Nigeria and the ExxonMobil Foundation for the opportunity to be part of such a meaningful initiative. The impact of this program will resonate for years to come, and I can't wait to see the incredible achievements of these inspired students.