Lagos witnessed a vibrant display of advocacy and unity last Saturday when members of Lions Club International, District 404A3, held their annual New Voices Walk with the theme: “Voices in Motion: Walking for Inclusion, impact and innovation.”
The symbolic walk covered a distance of over two kilometres from Oregun to the Jakande Johnson Tinubu (JJT) Park in Alausa, Ikeja.
The event attracted Lions Club leaders, members, dignitaries and supporters from across the district to promote diversity, inclusion, and positive societal transformation through community service and advocacy.
Speaking at the event, Lion Omotomike Titilayo Ibikunle, District chairperson of the New Voices Initiative, described the walk as an essential awareness campaign aimed at amplifying underrepresented voices in society—especially women and young people.
“This walk is not just symbolic; it’s a call for inclusive leadership, diversity in service, and innovation in our communities,” she said.
“It is an annual gathering of like-minded individuals committed to building peace, promoting unity, and celebrating the unique contributions of women and youth to leadership and social change.”
Also addressing participants, Mary Onu, incoming President of Lions Club International District 404, emphasized that the New Voices platform was established to spotlight the historically underrepresented, particularly women.
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“For many years, women were in the minority in the Lions Club, but the New Voices initiative has provided a platform for those voices to be heard and celebrated,” Onu explained.
“Today, you can see the impact—more women are participating, and young people are joining the movement, recognizing that Lionism is not limited by age or gender.”
She described Lionism as a community where service is driven by compassion, commitment, and collective impact, noting, “It’s not about how much you have, but your willingness to give what you can to uplift others. In this space, you also build strong networks and find people with shared values.”
Lion Ano Anyanwu, Multiple Council Chairperson of Lions Club District 404, highlighted the broader mission of the New Voices initiative, stating that it continually raises awareness on critical social issues affecting vulnerable groups.
“Every year, we organise service programs and activities like today’s walk to draw attention to the needs of the marginalized—including women, children, and the elderly,” Anyanwu said.
“This year’s walk is another example of our commitment to giving voice to the voiceless and promoting peace through action.”
The event featured placard-carrying participants, musical performances, and community engagement sessions aimed at raising awareness on the importance of social inclusion, youth participation, and compassionate service.
With an increasing number of women and young people taking active roles in the club’s leadership and activities, the New Voices Walk continues to serve as a beacon for inclusive progress, positioning Lions Club International as a force for unity and innovation in Nigeria and beyond.