Bolanle Ambode Advises Teenagers Against Intimate Relationships, Urges Focus on Academics at Book Launch

Bolanle Ambode Advises Teenagers Against Intimate Relationships, Urges Focus on Academics at Book Launch

Lagos, Nigeria — Mrs. Bolanle Ambode, wife of the former governor of Lagos State and founder of the Hope for Women in Nigeria Initiative (HOFOWEM), has urged teenage girls to avoid premature intimate relationships and prioritize their academic success. She shared this advice during the launch of the book "Let the Child Live," authored by Caroline Oluwadare, held at the HOFOWEM office in Oregun, Ikeja.

Represented by Mrs. Oyefunke Olayinka, Mrs. Ambode highlighted the dangers of teenage intimate relationships, emphasizing their potential to derail academic aspirations and future ambitions. “My dear children, never be in a hurry to jump into dangerous and needless intimate relationships capable of truncating your dreams, and putting your cherished ambitions in jeopardy, as shown in the book ‘Let the Child Live,’” she advised.

The book’s author, Caroline Oluwadare, who benefitted from a HOFOWEM scholarship, along with three other graduates who all earned first-class honors, was praised by Mrs. Ambode for her discipline and dedication. She pointed out that despite the challenges of peer pressure and social temptations, Oluwadare and her peers remained focused on their studies and achieved outstanding academic success.

Addressing the event, Mrs. Ambode commended the book for shedding light on the social issue of teenage intimate relationships and their detrimental effects on young girls' lives. She called on parents and guardians to fulfill their parental responsibilities and support their daughters, even in the event of teenage pregnancy.

In her welcome address, Oluwadare stated that the book aims to raise awareness among teenagers about sexual abstinence and the management of teenage pregnancy, which she described as a significant social issue. She emphasized the broader impact of the book in contributing to Sustainable Development Goals, particularly zero hunger, good health and well-being, and reduced inequality.

Keynote speaker Mrs. Juliet Obijiaku also encouraged girls to focus on their career goals and personal development while avoiding relationships that could hinder their dreams. She advocated for abstinence, stressing its role in enabling teenagers to concentrate on their education and long-term goals. Mrs. Obijiaku also called for supportive environments for pregnant teenagers and highlighted the importance of combating the stigma associated with teenage pregnancy.

Book reviewer Mrs. Toyin Olanrewaju praised Oluwadare’s writing for effectively addressing the issue and providing solutions. She urged young people affected by teenage pregnancy to speak out and seek support, and she encouraged parents to offer their children the necessary support during difficult times.

The event featured a panel discussion, drama and poetry sessions, and contributions from past beneficiaries of the HOFOWEM scholarship.