In a remarkable demonstration of its great commitment to community development and youth empowerment, Lions International, District 404B3 Nigeria, under the able leadership of its District Governor, Lion (Dr.) Ibrahim ’Jide Bello, PMJF, NLCF, successfully commissioned the first phase of the District Core Project – the upgraded Dining Hall of Lagos State Model Senior College, Ojo, Lagos State.
This landmark commissioning ceremony was held on Friday, May 23, 2025, and was graced by eminent personalities within the Lions family and distinguished dignitaries from government and society. Notable Lions and guests included International Director Africa, Lion Princess Adetope Tychus PMJF, NLCF, Past International Director/LCIF Board of Trustees, Lion Engr. HOB Lawal PMJF, NLCF; Multiple Council Chairperson, Lion Ano Anyanwu PMJF, NLCF; Constitutional Area 8 LCIF, Lion TOS Adewunmi PMJF, NLCF; GAT Area 8B Lion Gbolagade Adebisi PMJF, NLCF; District Governor D404A3, Lion Folashade Shotomide PMJF, NLCF, District Governors Elect of ; B3, B4 and A3- Lion Adelaja Adeleye PMJF, NLCF, Lion Adebowale Afolayan PMJF, NLCF and Lion Mary Onu PMJF, NLCF respectively, PCC Lion(AVM) Anthony Okpere Rtd, PDG Lion Bernard Eboreime PMJF, NLCF, PDG Lion Lynda Odunmbaku PMJF, NLCF.PDG Lion Aare Lekan Owolabi PMJF, NLCF, First Vice District Governor elect D404B3 Lion(Barr.) Tosin Taiwo MJF, NLCF, Second Vice District Governor elect, D404B3 Lion Aderonke Oyewunmi MJF, NLCF, Regional Development Manager, Europe and Africa -LCIF, Paul Steele, Cabinet officers, Regions and Zone Chairpersons, Lion Leaders from across Nigeria, as well as the Honourable Commissioner for Education representing the Lagos State Deputy Governor.
Community leaders, traditional chiefs, school administrators, teachers, and students were also present to witness the unveiling of this life-changing project.
A Project Born Out of Service Vision and Need Assessment
The genesis of this legacy project began with a comprehensive community needs assessment conducted by District 404B3 in early 2024/2025 Lions Service Year. Led by District Governor, Lion (Dr.) Ibrahim ’Jide Bello, the team identified the dilapidated state of the school’s dining hall as a critical area requiring urgent intervention. The assessment revealed that the old dining facility lacked aesthetic and environmental quality and fell short of acceptable standards for the hundreds of students relying on it for daily meals.
In response, Lions District 404B3 embarked on a total upgrading and reconstruction program. What was initially a poorly ventilated, low-roofed structure has now been transformed into a modern, spacious, and well-ventilated dining hall with enhanced roofing, lighting, flooring, and wall finishes, providing a healthy and dignified meal environment for students.
“This is not just a renovation; this is the birth of a renewed vision for student welfare,” remarked District Governor Lion (Dr.) Ibrahim ’Jide Bello during the event. “Our theme for the project, ‘Serving Humanity, One Meal at a Time’, reflects our belief that no act of service is too small when it touches the lives of young people and the future leaders of this nation.”
Collective Commitment and Multi-Level Support
The success of this core project was made possible through the support of generous donors, the tireless efforts of the Core Project Committee, and the steadfast leadership of the District Governor Elect D404B3, Lion Adelaja Adeleye PMJF, NLCF. Special appreciation was also extended to the Project Committee Chairperson, Lion Demola Olaopa MJF, NLCF, and the entire team for their commitment to quality delivery.
The Lagos State Government’s partnership, especially through the Ministry of Education, played a key role in the successful execution of the project. Speaking on behalf of the state, the Honourable Commissioner for Education commended Lions Clubs International for its continued contribution to the state’s educational infrastructure, reiterating the importance of such partnerships in bridging development gaps in the public sector.
A Legacy that Inspires the Future
Guests at the commissioning were taken on a guided tour of the renovated facility by the District Governor, culminating in an official commissioning and ribbon-cutting ceremony performed by the Honourable Commissioner for Education.
As announced during the event, the second phase of the District Core Project will commence in the next Lions Service Year (2025/2026), focusing on equipping the newly upgraded dining hall with modern kitchen facilities, dining furniture, and other essential amenities to complete the transformation.
This initiative aligns perfectly with Lions International's global vision of fostering sustainable community development and promoting youth well-being.
A Symbol of Service Beyond Self
Lions Clubs International District 404B3 Nigeria remains committed to its mission of uplifting humanity. This landmark project in Ojo, Lagos state, is a testament to the far-reaching impact that purposeful service can achieve when inspired leadership meets collective action.
For more information about this and other Lions projects, visit the official district website at www.lionsclubs404b3.org.
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