The Ogun State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Adijat Adeleye, has urged bloggers and content creators, particularly youths, to remain focused, consistent, and diligent in the discharge of their duties, advising them to prioritise value and professionalism over monetary considerations.
Adeleye, in a statement on Thursday, gave the charge while receiving members of Gateway Bloggers during a courtesy visit to her ministry at the Governor’s Office, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta, on Wednesday.
While lamenting what she described as the growing “money-first” syndrome among youths, the commissioner said value creation and exposure should take precedence over immediate financial gains.
“Don’t put money first. Yes, money is good, but don’t let money define your value. There are times you won’t even charge; it is the exposure you will get from that job that you should consider.
“At the end of the day, the money will come. By the time you know it, they won’t have any choice but to pay you. All you need to do is to stay focused, keep your eyes on the ball, know what you’re doing, and gradually you will get there”, she said.
Using an analogy, Adeleye said success required patience and consistent effort.
“God said He would bless the work of our hands. He will not bless what is not there. It is not the day you sow that you reap. You sow, you water, and you weed before it grows. If the money is not coming now, see it as your season of sowing,” she added.
The commissioner assured the bloggers of the ministry’s readiness to collaborate with them in achieving its objectives, stressing the importance of supporting local content creators.
“If we are supporting outsiders, why not our own? I am a strong supporter of local content. There are times we have had to insist that we cannot continue bringing people from Lagos, because when it is time to ask for votes, it is our people here in Ogun State that we return to.
“On your part, when the opportunity comes, make good use of it. Wherever you find yourself, know that you are not only creating a path for yourself but also for others coming behind you.
“It is a two-way thing. We both have roles to play, and as Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, I can assure you that going forward, we will work with you,” Adeleye added.
Earlier, the group’s coordinator, Olamide David, said the visit was aimed at familiarising members with the ministry’s activities and pledged the group’s support for the ISEYA agenda of the Abiodun-led administration, particularly in the areas of women empowerment, enlightenment and social development.
“As a youth-driven group with strong grassroots presence, we are ready to partner with your ministry to help spread awareness of government programmes, mobilise women to participate, and support initiatives that promote economic empowerment, education and social inclusion.
“This visit marks the beginning of a productive relationship, and we assure you of our cooperation and commitment to your goals,” he said.