The Convener of the Ehiliz Support Initiative (ESI), Mrs. Elizabeth Ehigiamusoe, popularly known as Ehiliz, has called on secondary school students to remain focused on their goals and resist societal pressures that could derail their future aspirations.
Annual Youth Summit 2026
Speaking during the 2026 edition of the ESI Annual Youth Summit, a two-day sensitisation programme held across selected public and private schools in Lagos State, Ehiliz said the initiative was designed to equip Senior Secondary School Three (SS3) students with the right mindset as they prepare for life beyond secondary education.
The summit, themed 'Purpose Over Pressure,' brought together students from public schools on the first day and private schools on the second day.
Encouraging Purposeful Living
According to Ehiliz, the theme encourages young people to live according to their goals, values and vision rather than succumb to negative influences such as cultism, gangsterism and other social vices. She explained that the concept emphasises prioritising long-term aspirations and personal values above the desire for social approval or quick gains.
“It requires discipline, clarity and the courage to stay true to one’s purpose. In essence, purpose over pressure is about doing what truly matters, standing firm in your beliefs and making decisions based on purpose rather than pressure,” she added.
School Visits and Student Engagement
As part of the outreach, ESI officials visited Lagos Baptist Senior College and Lagos Baptist Secondary School (LABASCO), Orile Agege, on the first day of the programme. During the sessions, students were encouraged to stay focused on their academic and personal goals while avoiding distractions that could negatively impact their future.
Participants commended the initiative, noting that the discussions helped them appreciate the value of patience, determination and having a clear direction in life. The engagement also featured an interactive question-and-answer session.
The programme continued on the second day with visits to Providence Heights School and St. Kizito College in Iju, where students received similar guidance on remaining committed to their ambitions despite external pressures.
Students who participated in the sessions said they learned the importance of avoiding negative influences, choosing friends wisely and staying away from activities that could jeopardise their future prospects.
The event also featured another interactive session that allowed participants to seek clarification on issues affecting young people and their personal development.
Support from School Authorities
Among those in attendance were the Principal of Providence Heights School, the Administrator of St. Kizito College, Rev. Fr. Kenneth Jerome Mereh, and members of the teaching staff, who commended the initiative’s efforts to promote positive values and responsible decision-making among students.
