By Etop Ekanem

The Soledotun Abdulkarim-Yusuf Foundation in collaboration with La Dots Partycity, recently held end-of-year get-together for inmates of Correctional Centre for Junior Boys, Birrel Avenue, Sabo,Yaba Lagos with the theme “Festival of Hope for the Boy Child 2025,” where food items were donated to the centre.

The event, which took place at the Correctional Centre, was a day of joy, motivation, and meaningful impact for the inmates. The boys had an amazing time. They danced, laughed, and participated actively throughout the programme. Foodstuffs and toiletries were presented by the Foundation as part of its commitment to empowering the boy-child.

Speaking at the event, Founder, Soledotun Abdulkarim-Yusuf Foundation, Hajia Soledotun Abdulkarim-Yusuf, encouraged the boys to believe in themselves, embrace discipline and remain hopeful about their future.

She said: “Being here today does not define who you are. Your past does not limit your potential. Your present situation does not determine your destination. Every great man you admire today once faced challenges, setbacks, and moments of doubt. What made the difference was not where they started but the decision they made to rise, to change, and to believe in themselves.

“To every boy here today, I want you to hear this clearly: You are strong. You are capable. You are full of purpose. Life may have dealt you difficult cards, but you still have the power to choose discipline over distraction, purpose over pressure, and hope over despair. What matters is what you do from this moment forward.

“At the Soledotun Abdulkarim-Yusuf Foundation, we believe in you. We believe that when a boy is guided, encouraged, and supported, he becomes a man of character, courage, and positive impact.

Today’s Festival of Hope is a reminder that: You are not forgotten; You are not alone; And your future is still bright.

We appreciate the management and staff of this Correctional Centre for their dedication to shaping lives, and we thank everyone who has made today possible.
As you leave here today, carry this message with you: Your past may explain you, but it does not define you. Your future is still yours to create.

On behalf of the Soledotun Abdulkarim-Yusuf Foundation, we promise to continue standing with the boy child — encouraging, empowering, and inspiring hope.
Also speaking, the Director of the Correctional Centre, Mr Salu Oladayo appreciated the foundation for responding to some of their needs and wished they could come back again.

Also present were members of the Board of Trustees of the foundation including Mallam Abdulkarim Yusuf and others.