By Etop Ekanem

The Lagos Ikoyi Elite Lions Club recently held the charter presentation of Federal College of Fisheries and Marine Technology (FCFMT) Leo Club. The FCFMT Leo Club charter presentation was sponsored by Lagos Ikoyi Elite Lions Club.

Leo Club represents the vibrant, energetic and compassionate youth arm of Lions Clubs International. It is a platform where young people are not only inspired to serve but are also equipped to lead, grow and make meaningful impact in their communities.

Speaking at the charter presentation recently, District Governor, Lions District 404-A3 Nigeria, Lion Mary Onu said: “I am delighted to be here. I love to work with young people and when I say young people I mean from year zero till you are an adult. So, I’m chartering a new club. This club has been struggling for charter for several years but this year, it has come through and I’m delighted. I look forward to a lot of projects within the Island because that is your catchment area.”

She advised them to cut their coat according to their clothes, adding: “That is my principle. There is no rule that says you must do a core project as a district governor or Lions leader. The main aim is to serve. So I don’t want you to put yourself under undue pressure because you are serving. Serve within your means and be very impactful. Don’t put yourself in a situation where you are susceptible to things that you should not ordinarily be doing because you are serving. Serve from your heart and that’s what matters.

“So I look forward to joining you in service in the years to come and I look forward to the great impact you will be making in the community around you, to that new club of District 404A3, to the new club in general and in fact to the Lions Club globally.”

Also speaking earlier in her opening address, Lion Soledotun Abdulkarim-Yusuf, Leo Advisor, FCFMT Leo Club, said: “To our charter members, today is a defining moment. You have chosen a path of service over indifference, leadership over passivity, and impact over comfort. This decision sets you apart. As Leos, you are not just members of a club, you are ambassadors of hope, agents of change, and leaders in the making.

“The journey ahead will require commitment, discipline, teamwork, and resilience. There will be challenges, but within those challenges lie opportunities to grow stronger, wiser, and more united. Always remember the Leo motto: Leadership, Experience, Opportunity. Let it guide your actions and define your legacy.

“I would like to sincerely appreciate the sponsoring Lions Club, my club, Lagos Ikoyi Elite Lions Club, mentors, and all stakeholders whose dedication and support have made today possible. Your investment in these young minds is an investment in a better future.

“As the Advisor, I pledge my commitment to guide, support, and nurture this club to excellence. Together, we will build a club that stands for integrity, service, and impact.

“Let this charter presentation not just be an event, but the beginning of a legacy, one that will echo through service projects, leadership achievements, and lives positively transformed.”

The new officials of the FCFMT Leo Club are Leo Segun Sunday, President; Leo Amusa Michael, Vice President; Leo Kareem Mariam, Secretary; Leo Dorcas Oluwafunmilayo Treasurer and Leo Abiodun Encho, Project Director.

The ceremony was graced by District Governor, Lion Mary Onu; District Cabinet Secretary, Lion Ahmed Ajayi; Leo President, Leo Tunde Lasisi; the Lion President,Lion Abdulkarim Yusuf; Lion Secretary, Lion Jumoke Shittu, alongside distinguished Lions and Leos.