The Executive Chairman of Lekki Local Council Development Area (LCDA), Engr. Rasaki Bamidele Kasali (MNSE, MNATE), has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to improving the welfare and education of children by supporting the launch of the “Adopt A School – Snacks for Thought (PBAT Feeds)” initiative under the Renewed Hope National Home Grown School Feeding Programme (RHNHGSFP).
Epe Insights reports that the programme was officially flagged off at Community Primary School, Otolu, where pupils, teachers, government officials and education stakeholders gathered to witness the commencement of the initiative aimed at promoting better nutrition and improved learning among primary school pupils.
The initiative is part of the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope National Home Grown School Feeding Programme, designed to provide nutritious snacks to pupils in public primary schools while encouraging school attendance, improving concentration and supporting children’s overall well-being.
Speaking at the event, Engr. Rasaki Bamidele Kasali commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for introducing the programme, describing it as a thoughtful investment in the future of Nigerian children through improved nutrition and education.
The Chairman also expressed appreciation to the Lagos State Government and Conference 57 for partnering to bring the initiative to communities across Lagos State.
According to him, the collaboration demonstrates the importance of coordinated efforts among the Federal Government, Lagos State Government and local councils in addressing the educational and welfare needs of children.
As the first beneficiaries of the programme, pupils of Community Primary School, Otolu, and Local Government Primary School, Oriyanrin received nutritious snacks specially provided to support their health, learning capacity and classroom participation.
The Chairman noted that good nutrition remains a critical foundation for quality education. He stressed that children who receive adequate nourishment are better positioned to concentrate during lessons, develop academically and reach their full potential.
Education experts have consistently maintained that school feeding programmes contribute significantly to improved attendance, reduced absenteeism and stronger academic performance. They also help reduce short-term hunger that can affect pupils’ ability to learn effectively during school hours.
Beyond the educational benefits, the Renewed Hope National Home Grown School Feeding Programme is also expected to support local agricultural production by encouraging the sourcing of food items from local farmers and producers, thereby creating economic opportunities within communities.
The “Adopt A School – Snacks for Thought (PBAT Feeds)” initiative represents another step toward improving child welfare through practical interventions that combine nutrition with education. By ensuring that pupils receive healthy snacks, the programme seeks to create a more conducive learning environment in public schools.
Engr. Kasali reaffirmed that his administration will continue to embrace partnerships that prioritize the interests of children. He stated that every investment made in education and child welfare contributes directly to the future growth and development of Lekki LCDA.
The Chairman emphasized that quality education extends beyond classroom instruction, noting that the physical well-being of pupils plays an essential role in determining their academic success and personal development.
Parents and education stakeholders welcomed the initiative, describing it as a timely intervention that will enhance learning outcomes while encouraging more children to attend school regularly.
They also praised the collaboration between the different levels of government, saying such partnerships are necessary to strengthen the education sector and improve the lives of young learners.
The programme aligns with the broader objectives of expanding access to quality education, promoting child development and supporting initiatives that create equal opportunities for pupils in public schools.
For many families, school feeding programmes offer an additional layer of support by helping to reduce the burden of providing daily meals while ensuring children receive nutritious food during school hours.
As Lekki LCDA continues to support educational and social development programmes, initiatives such as the Renewed Hope National Home Grown School Feeding Programme are expected to complement existing efforts aimed at building healthier, better-equipped and academically successful pupils.
The flag-off of the programme at Community Primary School, Otolu, marks the beginning of what stakeholders hope will become a sustainable intervention that positively impacts thousands of pupils across the council area and beyond.
With child welfare remaining a key priority, Lekki LCDA says it will continue to collaborate with relevant stakeholders to implement programmes that improve education, nutrition and the overall well-being of children, reinforcing the belief that investing in young learners is an investment in the future of the community and the nation.
