Running for a Future with Books in Hand

Growing up, I was privileged to always have both Mathematics and English textbooks for each class. These books were more than just pages—they were companions that guided me in reading and doing basic arithmetic. I vividly remember going home to act out some of the roles in the stories I read in those English textbooks. The pictures and descriptions helped bring the words to life and made reading exciting and engaging.

At home, with my siblings or friends, we would go over the stories together, sometimes writing our own scripts inspired by what we had read. These books didn’t just help me pass my exams—they gave me confidence. They gave me a foundation. I always had something to fall back on. My literacy and numeracy skills were sharpened because I had the tools I needed.

Fast-forward to today, as a teacher, I see another reality.

I have met brilliant learners—bright-eyed children who love to learn—but something breaks inside me when they return to school the next day forgetting what we had learned together. Not because they are lazy or unwilling, but because they go home without the support they need. No textbooks. No materials to revisit, review, or explore deeper. Their desire to learn is there, but the tools are missing.

This has become my heart’s cry: to equip learners in underserved communities with the basic materials they need to thrive. Every child deserves at least a Mathematics and English textbook. These books are the gateway to not just literacy and numeracy, but to self-expression, imagination, and growth. Imagine a learner coming across a new word, finding it beautifully defined with illustrations, and then confidently using it in conversation the next day. Imagine that same learner asking thoughtful, curious questions—all because they had the opportunity to learn beyond the classroom.

This is why I’m participating in the Feet_for_Future Ultra Run, organized by a friend with a heart for education. The goal? To raise ₦1 million to provide textbooks for learners in underserved communities.

Have I trained for this race? Your guess is as good as mine.

But I’m not just running for fitness—I’m running for futures. I’m running for children who deserve the same opportunities I had. And I’m inviting you to join me on this journey.

You can be part of this mission by donating towards the cause or sharing the flyer to reach potential donors.

Together, we can place books in the hands of children who are ready to dream, learn, and lead.