L-R: Moyo Akinyosoye, Business Executive, Institutional Banking, Sterling Bank; Zuriel Oduwole, Youth Envoy/Nobel Peace Prize Nominee; Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Executive Governor, Lagos State; Olapeju Ibekwe, CEO, Sterling One Foundation; and Ifeoluwa Elegbede, Communication Lead, Sterling One Foundation, during a courtesy visit to the Lagos State Governor’s Office to discuss youth empowerment, gender equality, and the need for sustained action in creating opportunities for young leaders.
Lagos, Nigeria – Nobel Peace Prize nominee Zuriel Oduwole and Sterling One Foundation have reinforced the urgent need for gender equality and youth empowerment, emphasizing sustained action to create opportunities for young leaders.
This call to action was the focus of their courtesy visit to the Lagos State Governor’s Office, where they engaged in discussions on driving social change.
At just 22 years old, Oduwole is the youngest Nigerian Nobel Peace Prize nominee and the first Nigerian to be recognized in this category. Her global advocacy in education, gender equality, and youth inclusion has shaped policies and influenced key decision-makers across multiple countries.
Sterling One Foundation’s Commitment to Women’s Empowerment
A statement signed by Ifeoluwa Elegbede, Public Relations, Sterling One Foundation, highlighted the foundation’s investment in social impact across critical sectors. The foundation has integrated gender equality and women’s empowerment into all its initiatives, ensuring young women and girls have access to the resources, platforms, and opportunities they need to thrive.
Speaking on the foundation’s dedication to these causes, Olapeju Ibekwe, CEO of Sterling One Foundation, underscored the importance of storytelling and intentional programming in shaping Africa’s future. She also aligned the foundation’s work with this year’s International Women’s Day theme: “Accelerate Action.”
“At Sterling One Foundation, we are intentional about telling African stories that reflect the strength and potential of our people. This is evident in our focus areas and programming, where we have deliberately mainstreamed gender equality and women’s empowerment.
This aligns with the call to ‘Accelerate Action’ this International Women’s Day, reinforcing the urgency of breaking barriers for women and girls. We are proud of Zuriel Oduwole for amplifying these values on the global stage, and we remain committed to creating an environment where young changemakers, especially women and girls, have the support and opportunities they need to lead and succeed.”
Governor Sanwo-Olu Applauds Oduwole’s Milestone
During the visit, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu praised Oduwole’s historic Nobel Peace Prize nomination, describing it as a landmark achievement for Nigeria and Africa.
“This achievement reflects the resilience and determination of our people. In the past five years, we have faced COVID-19, economic challenges, and instability, yet we have continued to create opportunities for young Nigerians in technology, finance, and entertainment.
The THEMES Plus agenda reinforces our commitment to inclusion and youth empowerment. Lagos is proud to support Zuriel’s journey and work with the Sterling One Foundation to expand opportunities for the next generation.”
The Power of Storytelling in Social Change
Oduwole also highlighted the transformative power of storytelling in driving social change:
“I have seen the power of storytelling in changing perceptions and opening doors for young people. When we share our stories, we inspire action. I am grateful to our partners for amplifying young voices and creating opportunities that make a real difference.”
Her remarks emphasize storytelling as a catalyst for change, capable of influencing policies, shifting mindsets, and creating lasting community impact. The need for sustained investment in platforms that amplify diverse voices—especially those of young women and girls—has never been more urgent.
Sterling One Foundation’s Vision for Lasting Impact
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The Sterling One Foundation remains committed to driving sustainable change through strategic interventions that advance gender equality, youth empowerment, and social development.
Sterling One Foundation (SOF) is a registered non-profit dedicated to addressing the root causes of poverty in Nigeria and Africa through social impact programs across five critical sectors:
Climate Action
Health
Education & Youth Development
Gender Equality & Empowerment
Food Security
The foundation prioritizes partnerships for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
For more information, visit onefoundation.ng.
