The Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has pledged stronger collaboration and support for the Lagos State Scout Council following his formal investiture as the Patron of the association.
Sanwo-Olu made the pledge during an investiture ceremony organised by the Lagos State Scout Council in Lagos on Friday at the Lagos State House Marina.
At the investiture ceremony, Sanwo-Olu reaffirmed his commitment to supporting the association and strengthening its role in youth development and civic responsibility.
“I am honoured to be the patron of the Lagos State Scout Council and the Scout Association of Nigeria in Lagos State”, he said.
“I have watched the activities of the scouts over the years, and I know the level of discipline, civic duty and responsibility the organisation represents,” the governor said.
Sanwo-Olu commended members of the association for their selfless service and contributions to society.
“A whole lot of times, you have carried out your duties selflessly, without fear or favour and without expecting personal reward.”
“I want to thank and commend you on behalf of the people of Lagos State,” he said.
The Governor assured the association that his administration would deepen collaboration with the scouts through relevant ministries and agencies.
“We will continue to strengthen our partnership with the Scout Association and ensure deeper interventions where necessary.”
“I have listened carefully to your requests, and I can assure you that they will be attended to in a very short time,” he said.
Sanwo-Olu pledged to do more for the association in his new capacity as patron.
“I am happy to serve as your patron, and I will do even more for you,” he said.
Speaking at the event, the State Scout Commissioner, Mr Oloruntoyin Adebesin, said the investiture was in line with the constitution of the Scout Association of Nigeria.
Adebesin expressed appreciation to the governor for accepting to serve as the patron of the council despite his busy schedule.
“It is my distinct honour and pleasure to formally induct our governor, Mr Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, as the patron of Lagos Scout Council in accordance with our constitution.”
“Our profound gratitude goes to His Excellency for graciously taking time to be with us today and for accepting to serve as our patron,” he said.
The scout commissioner described the Scout Movement, founded in 1907, as an organisation committed to youth development and leadership training.
According to him, the movement contributes meaningfully to the development of youths and helps them to become responsible citizens within their local, national and international communities.
“As leaders, we are under obligation to train youths through various stages of development to become useful citizens and positive leaders,” he said.
Adebesin said the association had enjoyed constructive partnership with the Lagos State Government, particularly through the Ministry of Youth and Social Development.
He, however, appealed to the state government to support the council in critical areas to strengthen scouting activities.
According to him, the council requires a new bus and utility vehicle for transportation of camping materials and logistics.
“The last bus donated to us was about 25 years ago during the administration of our former governor, who is now the President of the country. We are still using the same bus today,” he said.
Adebesin also requested support for camping equipment, including tents, industrial cooking gas, pots and utensils, as well as continuous donation of scout uniforms for public school students.
He expressed concern over the decline of scouting activities in public schools due to economic challenges affecting parents.
“Scouting is now stronger in private schools because many parents in public schools cannot afford uniforms for their children,” he said.
The Commissioner appealed to the government to approve the use of public schools for scouting camps and training programmes.
“If approved, we will ensure proper maintenance and protection of school facilities during our activities,” he said.
