The Lagos State Government, through the Office of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), joined the global community to commemorate International Volunteers Day with a vibrant, inspirational roadshow rally across key parts of Ikeja and its environs.
The colourful event, designed to highlight the indispensable role of volunteers in advancing community development and strengthening social cohesion, brought together hundreds of volunteers, youth groups, civil society organisations, development partners, and government officials. Participants marched with banners and placards bearing messages of service, compassion, and collective responsibility.
Speaking at the event, the Permanent Secretary, Office of SDGs, Mrs. Kaphayah Olayemi Sarumi, commended volunteers across Lagos for their unwavering commitment to supporting various humanitarian and developmental initiatives, stressing that volunteers play a critical role in advancing the State’s vision of an inclusive and sustainable society.
She stated that the road show is not only a celebration but also a strong message calling for renewed dedication to volunteerism, particularly in areas such as climate action, environmental preservation, health advocacy, community support, and youth empowerment.
In her words “Volunteerism entails selflessness, sacrifice, service, and support. Those who devote their time, money, and other resources to serve humanity have made a deal with their conscience to bequeath a better world to the yet unborn generation. The Lagos state government recognised their passion and sacrifices, hence, the need to identify with their commitment and ethos.”
Sarumi emphasised the commitment of the Lagos State Government to providing enabling platforms for volunteer engagement, adding that increased participation can significantly accelerate progress toward achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.
Highlights of the road show included sensitisation stops at strategic locations, distribution of information materials, advocacy chants, and interactive engagements with the public.
The Office of SDGs reaffirmed its resolve to continue creating opportunities for citizens to contribute meaningfully to community development, urging Lagosians to embrace the spirit of volunteerism as a pathway to building a more resilient and prosperous State.
