Corps Member EwaOluwa Morenikeji Hosts Impactful Student Summit in Abeokuta

Abeokuta, Ogun State — July 28, 2025

As part of her contribution to youth development in Ogun State, a serving National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member, EwaOluwa Morenikeji, hosted the Abeokuta Student Empowerment Summit 2025, a transformative event that brought together students from across the city of Abeokuta for a full day of inspiration, learning, and empowerment.

Held on Friday, July 18th, 2025 at the Main Auditorium of the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library, Oke Mosan, the summit was themed “Empowered for a Great Future”, and recorded participation from over 30 secondary schools, alongside hundreds of students and educators, both onsite and via a live online stream.

The event featured three major sessions, beginning with a panel discussion that addressed issues related to career guidance, academic excellence, peer influence, and purposeful living. Speakers on the panel included Miss Deborah OlaOluwa, a registered nutritionist and a nutrition and wellness coach; Engr. Adedeji Adebayo, a trained Civil Engineer and practicing Software Engineer; Miss Cherie Nwaukwu, a professional marketer who also served as the event’s compere; and the convener, EwaOluwa Morenikeji, a Civil Engineer by profession.

Speaking on the purpose of the summit, EwaOluwa Morenikeji explained that the event was inspired by her desire to give back meaningfully during her NYSC year.
“I believe strongly in the power of timely exposure and encouragement. My goal was to help young students in Abeokuta see beyond their current challenges and believe in the greatness they carry,” she said.

The second session was an Essay Competition on the topic “What the Future Holds”. Nine finalists presented their essays live on stage, impressing the audience with their depth and clarity. Winners from JOA Havilah College and Ijemo Titun were awarded prizes and certificates for their outstanding performance.

In the final session, the convener addressed personal struggles students often face beyond academics — from identity crises to patterns to fear of failure — and encouraged them to live with intention and faith. The session ended with a heartfelt prayer and affirmations led by EwaOluwa Morenikeji.

Feedback from students after the summit was overwhelmingly positive. One student shared how the event reignited his drive to further his education here in Nigeria while pursue his dream course despite the limitations of its availability in Nigeria. Several others expressed renewed clarity and courage to pursue purposeful paths.

The success of the summit was made possible by the dedication of over 50 volunteers (largely Ogun State Corpers) and support from individuals and organizations who partnered with the initiative. Publicity efforts included the circulation of over 500 flyers, display of four event banners, and formal invitations to schools across the city.

“This summit may have lasted one day, but I believe the impact will echo for years. These students are our future, and I’m honored to have contributed to shaping their journey,” said Engr. EwaOluwa Morenikeji as she reflected on the success of the event.

As she rounds off her NYSC service year in Ogun State, the convener hopes to continue youth-focused projects through her various initiatives and platforms.