HRM Florence inaugurates new office for humanitarian outreach in Lagos.

YOLA —By Austin Ajayi.

It was joy and gratitude to God from the people of Awoyaya area of Ibeju-Lekki local government area of Lagos state when Her Majesty, Queen Florence Okonkwo Okonkwo, Chairperson and Founding Visioneer of Support for Vulnerable and Less Privileged Children Initiative (SULPCHILD) inaugurated a new office complex for humanitarian activities.

The inauguration of its SULPCHILD Children’s Outreach Programme (SCOP) was a dream come true according the founder who spoke to journalist on zoom from her base in UK.

HRM Florence Okonkwo described the occasion as the beginning of a journey built around a simple belief; that every child deserves a fair chance in life, regardless of family background or economic circumstances.

In her words: “SULPCHILD was inspired by a simple belief: every child deserves a fair chance in life, regardless of their family background or economic situation,” she said.

“Today marks the beginning of that journey, it is a day to move from an idea to action and to officially begin building a platform that puts vulnerable children first.”

The Chairperson also highlighted the significance of the school supplies presented to indigent pupils as part of SCOP.

She noted that while a school bag or exercise book may appear small, such basic items can bring encouragement, confidence and happiness to a child who cannot afford them.

The outreach, held at Iwerekun Community Senior High School, Awoyaya, saw SULPCHILD presenting school bags and exercise books to selected indigent pupils from four pilot schools in the area

The schools are RCM Primary School Awoyaya, Community Primary School Lakowe, Iwerekun Community Junior High School Lakowe and Iwerekun Community Senior High School.

The ceremony had as Special Guest of Honour, Executive Chairman of Ibeju-Lekki Local Government Area, Hon. Engr. Abdullahi Sesan Olowa; Education Secretary, Hon. Areh-Saliu Sakiru; representatives of the local government and Education Authority.

Others present includes community leaders, partners, parents, teachers, members of the media and other guests.

In her remarks, SULPCHILD President, Amb. Francisca N. Harry, said the opening of the office represented more than the establishment of a physical space.

Described it as a platform through which compassion can become practical support for children in need.

She reaffirmed SULPCHILD’s belief that no child should be left behind because of poverty, neglect, disability or circumstance, while calling for stronger collaboration among families, schools, government, businesses, philanthropists and communities.

She commended the SULPCHILD team particularly the vissioner of this project her Majesty Queen Florence Okonkwo for the milestone and mission of every child matter the situation, no child should be left behind.