Vanguard a dream, a place where destinies thrive — Ajumobi

By Efe Onodjae Author of Flora’s Flower, Funmi Ajumobi, has described Vanguard Media Limited as a platform where destinies thrive, talents are nurtured and individuals are empowered to achieve their potential. Ajumobi, who spoke at the public presentation of her book in Lagos, expressed gratitude to Vanguard’s Publisher, Mr Sam Amuka; Chairman, Mrs Omasan Dudu; Editor, Mr Eze Anaba; and the board of editors for their support.

“For me, Vanguard is more than a newspaper organisation. Vanguard is a place where destinies are allowed to thrive. It is a place where people are given opportunities to discover their voices, develop their abilities and become more than they initially imagined,” she said. She also appreciated former Lagos State First Lady, Mrs Abimbola Fashola, for encouraging her to rewrite the book after the first manuscript was claimed by another person.

Explaining the motivation behind Flora’s Flower, Ajumobi said the book highlights the need to support child abuse survivors beyond the arrest and prosecution of perpetrators. She said society must prioritise survivors’ emotional wellbeing, education, safety and recovery, stressing that justice should not end with punishment. “We must also put the interest, safety, dignity, healing and future of the survivor at the centre of our response,” she said.

Ajumobi called for stronger support systems, including counselling, medical care, legal assistance and safe spaces where children could speak without fear. She disclosed that part of the proceeds from the book launch would support a breakfast-feeding initiative for children in Ikorodu, Lagos State, to encourage school attendance and reduce their vulnerability.

The author also urged parents, teachers, religious leaders, government agencies and the media to strengthen child protection efforts. She said Flora’s Flower was designed to serve as an educational resource, with child-protection helpline information for different countries to help survivors identify where to seek assistance.