On Wednesday June 25, over 100 students from five public secondary schools from across Lagos gathered at the Mainland Senior High School, Fadeyi-Yaba, to take part in the 2025 edition of Project 9-12, an inspiring youth initiative that merges technology, sports, and sustainability to empower Nigerian students and promote circular economy awareness.
Co-organized by JustUsed Tech and Passback, the event aimed to answer a powerful question: How can we prepare young people to thrive in a fast-changing world while also protecting the planet? Through immersive breakout sessions, distribution of refurbished tech devices and sports kits, and engaging physical activities, the project provided students with knowledge, tools, and hope.
Students from Lagos City College, Akoka Junior High School, Mobolaji Bank Anthony Junior High School, Saint Francis Junior Grammar School, and Mainland Senior High School, participated in interactive sessions focusing on circular economy principles such as reuse, repair, and recycling, all taught using relatable, local examples.
The day also featured a spirited mini football match, followed by the distribution of sports kits, footballs, towels, and other items to encourage physical well-being and teamwork as vital components of youth development.
One of the event highpoints was when a student from each of the schools received an upcycled laptop to support their digital learning. Thereafter, the event organizers seized the moment to reiterate their commitment to monitoring the students’ progress as part of the project’s long-term impact strategy.
The Director of Sports, representing the Tutor General, Education District IV, Mrs. Agboola Aminat, said the project made great impact on the students and even the teachers. “Many talented young people here in Lagos lack access to basic materials. This initiative gives underserved students the tools they need to grow and excel.” Agboola revealed.
Special Adviser to the Governor on SDGs, Dr. Oreoluwa Finnih-Awokoya, ably represented by Mrs. Araoye Funke of the Department of Outreach and Advocacy, praised the initiative as a fantastic program. Over 100 students from five schools are learning about tech and how to improve their future. I give kudos to the organizers. I encourage them to keep pushing. The sky is their limit, ” she said.
Other attendees included representatives from the Co-Curricular Desk, school principals, and teachers — all of whom underscored the importance of youth-focused, community-driven innovation.
Why This Matters
As Nigeria continues to grapple with challenges like youth unemployment, limited access to technology, and environmental degradation, Project 9-12 presents a practical and scalable solution. By blending sustainability education with tangible support, the program empowers young people to see themselves as problem-solvers and change agents in their communities.
Leadership Behind the Vision
Oreolorun Titobi, Founder and CEO of JustUsed Tech, is a passionate advocate for digital inclusion and circular economy education. His work centers on equipping underserved students with refurbished tech devices while teaching sustainable practices that reduce e-waste and bridge the digital divide.
Magdalen Pike, Founder and Executive Director of Passback, leads efforts to expand access to sports for underserved youth by redistributing quality used gear. Her vision is rooted in the belief that every child deserves the chance to play, grow, and thrive, regardless of their background.
Together, their leadership has shaped Project 9-12 into a model initiative for grassroots empowerment in Nigeria.
Next Steps
JustUsed Tech and Passback are actively seeking partners, donors, and volunteers to help scale the impact of Project 9-12 to more schools across Nigeria. Upcoming phases will include mentorship programs, device follow-ups, and student showcases to track how participants apply sustainability and digital skills in their everyday lives.
