Investing In A Future That Connects Us All

I often sit here, in my place in Lagos, and wonder what life looks like for you abroad. Maybe you're somewhere cold, wrapped up against a bitter winter I only see in movies, sometimes on social media. Or maybe you're somewhere bright, sipping coffee.

But here’s the troubling part: these children didn't look distressed. They weren't embarrassed. They accepted it. And that acceptance terrified me more than the act itself.

Honestly, all I know of your world comes from the books I've read, the films I've seen or when I scroll through social media. They say life abroad has different challenges but still tough. Bills, loneliness, a fast-paced life.

But then again, life here has its challenges too. I see kids with dreams bigger than the dusty roads they walk on. Kids who fetch water at dawn before even thinking about their lessons, children who share textbooks because resources are scarce. These children remind me of who I used to be.

Just the other day, I visited a primary school in a rural area. There, kids tore pages from their exercise books, disappearing quietly into bushes because their school lacked basic toilets. Their quiet dignity struck me. They reminded me of dreams that often die quietly in such harsh environments, dreams that deserve better.

I wonder, do memories of your dusty classroom ever sneak up on you?

Do you ever pause, even briefly, to remember how far you've come?

The phrase “never give up” you've probably heard countless times. But think about what that really, means for kids here who must hustle daily just for basic dignity. Some manage to escape, find their way abroad. But many are left behind, still dreaming, still hoping, still waiting for a chance.

Research clearly shows that children in schools with clean water, basic sanitation, and proper learning materials dream bigger, achieve more, and grow healthier minds. It's investing in a future that connects all of us.

Wherever you are, no matter how far you've travelled, remember your roots run deep. Nurture them, so others may also flourish..

How You Can Help

Donate: Your contributions allow us to expand this program to more schools.

By: Tolulope Adebajo

Project Director

Digging Well Foundation, Nigeria

Email: tolu.adebajo@diggingwell.org