By Usman kolapo
I have a friend named Bolaji, a gentle guy whom I deeply admire for his motivational support during my moments of confusion. We were supposed to be attending the same school, but tragically, something terrible occurred.
Back in 2020, we took the SSCE together, and while I gained admission to this school, Bolaji faced a devastating loss – his father passed away during our exams. As the eldest in his family, and having lost his mother at a young age, he struggled immensely, which affected his exam performance.
Understanding his turmoil, especially with the added responsibility for his younger siblings, Bolaji began working in Challenge, Ilorin, selling phones and accessories. Initially, everything seemed to be going well, but eventually, he started exhibiting troubling behaviors, including substance abuse.
During one visit to his house, I was shocked to find him smoking. I tried to console and counsel him, urging him to quit. However, his negative spiral continued, leading to his arrest by the NDLEA for drug trafficking, resulting in a five-year prison sentence.
During my visit to him over the second-semester holiday, I empathized with his situation and had a heart-to-heart conversation. I reminded him of our shared aspirations to become successful figures in our families and advised him not to lose faith in himself and in God.
Bolaji expressed deep regret for not heeding my earlier advice and promised to turn over a new leaf upon his release, committing to living a better life.
To the youth, I impart this message: Life’s challenges are not insurmountable. Even in difficult times, maintain optimism rather than succumbing to pessimism. Remember, no situation lasts forever. Confront your fears with courage, entrusting the outcome to a higher power, and things will eventually improve.