Kunle Adelabu
-Unveils agenda for students
Comr. Ogunbowale Olatayo Bodunrin, former President, Imota Students Union (ISU), has declared his intention to contest for the Office of the President, National Association of Ikorodu Students (NAIDS), the umbrella body of the entire students’ union bodies in Ikorodu Division.
The Presidential aspirant for the NAIDS Election 2024, has held several positions within the students’ union movement and also served in various capacities.
In the letter expressing his intention to vie for the exalted position, Comrade Ogunbowale also unveiled his Action Plans for the students, which is themed, ‘A New Vision’, with the primary intent of ensuring unity among students, and promoting equity and inclusiveness.
According to him, the Agenda will ‘Enhance Communication and Collaboration’; ‘Promote Academic Excellence and Innovation’; ‘Strengthen Community Engagement’ and ‘Support Student Welfare’.
Comrade Bodunrin had served in time past as: Students Ambassador (Scholar), Imota Students’ Development Association 2014; Public Relation Officer of Imota Students’ Development Association 2016; Social Director, Imota Students’ Union 2017-2018; Appointed Treasurer, Imota Students’ Union 2019-2020; Acting General Secretary, Imota Students’ Union 2020; President, Imota Students’ Union 2021-2022 and Member of Imota Students’ Union Stakeholders 2023 till date.
The NAIDS Presidential aspirant, at various times, held important positions at the national level of NAIDS. Among these which are: Senator of National Parliamentary Council NAIDS 2020-2021; Chairman House Committee on Academic and Health, NAIDS NPC 2020-2021; Secretary of First Formulated NAIDS IEC 2022; and Member, NAIDS Presidential Forum 2021-2022.
He has been honoured and awarded with the Best Students’ in Science Department, ISDA 2014; The Accolades Award Nominee as Young and Influencial Youth In Ikorodu Division 2021; NAIDS President of the year 2022; Outstanding Executive President, Imota Students’ Union 2022; Imminent Award Imota Students’ Union 2023; and NAIDS Leadership Icon of the year 2024.
He was also the Advisory Council Member, NULASS, UNILAG Chapter (2021-2022); Director of Bursary and Scholarship, NULASS, UNILAG Chapter (2023 till date); Co-ordinator, Youths for New Nigeria; Directorate Member On Education and Academic Matters, NYCN, Imota Branch (2020-till date); State Member, Lagos State Youth Ambassador (2018-2019); Imota LCDA Local Ambassador, Lagos State Youth Ambassador (2018-2019) ; Senior Prefect Boy, Ansar-ud-deen Grammar School, Imota (2015) Dynamic Set and Post Office Prefect, Ansar-ud-deen Primary School, Imota (2009).
Comrade Bodunrin had also served as volunteers for many groups and organizations in and outside Nigeria.
The NAIDS Presidential aspirant’s Letter Of Declaration is reproduced below:
Speech of Intent Declaration For The National Association of Ikorodu Division Students’ (NAIDS) Presidency
Distinguished members of the National Association of Ikorodu Division Students and The Populace of Ikorodu Division,
As one who derives joy in community service and advocacy for students and youths through representation, involvement and quality governance, it is on these premises that I am thrilled with a profound sense of responsibility to humbly announce my candidacy for the presidency of our esteemed association, the Natuonal Association of lkorodu Division Students (NAIDS). My name is Ogunbowale Olatayo Bodunrin (OTB), I hail from Imota Ayayo, a community of love for all, and I am committed to leading NAIDS towards continual growth, inclusivity, and equity for all members and local council development areas/ Local Government (LCDAs/LG) in the Ikorodu Division, with a deep sense of commitment to our shared values and a new vision for a brighter future. I am eager to bring innovative solutions and dedicated leadership to our community.
My journey has been one of service, dedication, and continuous learning. From my experience in the leadership roles that I had held before now in my LCDA students’ Union and even at the NAIDS’ NPC, I have gained valuable insights and skills that I am ready to bring to this new role. I believe in fostering an environment where every voice is heard, and every individual has the opportunity to thrive and be represented.
On this roller coaster ride, my vision for NAIDS centered on the following but not limited to;
A Vision for Continual Growth
Our association has a rich history of nurturing talents and fostering unity among students from various backgrounds. As your president, my primary focus will be on the continual growth of NAIDS. We will introduce innovative programs that enhance academic excellence, professional development, and personal growth. By creating more opportunities for skill acquisition, internships, and mentorship programs, we will ensure that every member is well-equipped to face future challenges and succeed in their chosen fields.
Inclusivity Across All LCDAs
Inclusivity is the bedrock of our strength. Ikorodu Division is composed of diverse communities, each with unique contributions and needs. My administration will work tirelessly to ensure that every LCDA under our division, feels represented and heard. We will strengthen the students’ body in each LCDA and Chapters across the institutions, ensuring that every student has access to the resources and support they need. By fostering a culture of inclusion, we will build a stronger, more united association.
Equity Among All Members
Equity is essential for fairness and unity. I pledge to promote policies that ensure equitable distribution of resources, opportunities, and representation among all members and groups within NAIDS. We will implement transparent processes for scholarships, grants and leadership positions, to guarantee that all deserving members benefit, regardless of their background or affiliation.
A New Vision for Our Future
Our proposed theme for the new administration shall be “A New Vision”, with much focus on “Unity in Diversity: Empowering Every Student for a Brighter Future.” This theme encapsulates our commitment to leveraging the diversity of our members to build a more inclusive and equitable association. Under this vision, we will:
Enhance Communication and Collaboration: Establish efficient communication channels and regular forums for dialogue among all LCDAs and members.
Promote Academic Excellence and Innovation: Introduce new academic initiatives, workshops, and seminars aimed at improving educational outcomes and fostering innovation.
Strengthen Community Engagement: Develop community service projects that allow students to give back to their local communities and build leadership skills.
Support Student Welfare: Advocate for policies and programs that address the welfare and well-being of our members, including mental health support and financial assistance.
I believe that transparency, integrity, and collaboration are the cornerstones of effective Leadership and my dedication to these principles are unwavering.
Together, we can transform our association into a new dimension of unity, growth, and equity. I humbly ask for your support and your vote in the upcoming election. Let us work hand in hand to create a brighter, more inclusive future for all members of the National Association of Ikorodu Division Students.
Thank you.
Sincerely,
Comr. Ogunbowale, Olatayo Bodunrin
Presidential Aspirant, NAIDS Election 2024.
…. Ìgbà ọ̀tun ẹgbe akekọ̀ Ìkòròdú dé!