Ambassador Ajadi Stresses Parental Role in Shaping Gen Z at RCCG Event

By Ibrahim Kegbegbe

The Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Pinnacle of Glory Parish, Area 007, Province 119, Ibafo, Ogun State, held a thought-provoking seminar on Sunday, November 24, 2024. The event, themed “The Positive and Negative Effects of the Gen Z Group and Gen Z Parenting in Society,” brought together church members and notable dignitaries to discuss the challenges and opportunities of parenting in the modern era.

The highlight of the program was the presence of Ambassador Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo, the 2023 Ogun State gubernatorial candidate for the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) and a committed member of the church. Ambassador Ajadi, alongside a host of other distinguished personalities, contributed his insights on effective parenting approaches for Generation Z (Gen Z)—a cohort comprising individuals born between 1997 and 2012.

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Parenting Styles Explored

The seminar opened with a detailed analysis of the four primary parenting styles by the official discussants, Mrs. Pastor Hannah Adebayo, Mrs. Pastor Mehio Joseph, Mrs. Pastor Kemi Oladele, and Mrs. Pastor Sanusi. The discussants outlined:

• Authoritarian Parenting – High control, low warmth.
• Authoritative Parenting – High control, high warmth.
• Permissive Parenting – Low control, high warmth.
• Neglectful Parenting – Low control, low warmth.

Each style was dissected for its characteristics and potential effects on children, with emphasis on the importance of a balanced approach.

Ambassador Ajadi Advocates for Authoritative Parenting

Addressing the audience, Ambassador Ajadi expressed his preference for authoritative parenting, which he described as a “balanced method combining discipline with emotional support.” According to him, this approach ensures children grow into responsible and self-confident individuals.

“Parenting is a delicate responsibility that demands love and firmness. Authoritative parenting is my choice because it involves high control and high warmth, giving children the discipline they need while also providing a strong support system,” Ajadi said. He added that such a style helps to instill obedience and respect for parents while fostering a healthy environment for children to thrive.

Ajadi also stressed the importance of parents actively engaging with their children and leading by example. He said, “We cannot afford to let societal influences shape our children negatively. Parents must take charge by instilling good values and teaching children to respect God’s word as a moral compass for their lives.”

Pastoral Guidance and Faith in Parenting

Pastor Matthew Inyang, the parish pastor, underscored the critical role of spiritual upbringing in parenting. “Train up a child in the way they should go, and when they are old, they will not depart from it. The church remains a powerful tool in shaping lives and correcting societal ills,” he said, quoting Proverbs 22:6.

Pastor Inyang also urged parents to maintain a strong foundation of faith in their homes, emphasizing the importance of morning devotions and regular exposure to God’s word. He warned, “Society may seem to offer solutions, but without God, even the best plans can fail. It is only through prayer and God’s guidance that our children can truly excel.”

Dignitaries in Attendance

The seminar attracted key figures, including Kilamuwaye Badmus, the South-West Public Relations Officer of NNPP; Hon. Kehinde Teluwo, the 2023 Ogun West Senatorial candidate under NNPP; and Mr. Femi Elegbede Ajibola, Managing Director of Bullion Records. Others were Comrade Olowu Omokehinde, Ogun State PRO of NNPP; Hon. Fatai Modawoni, the 2023 Waterside Assembly candidate; and Hon. Akingbala Semiu, Ogun Central Senatorial Chairman of NNPP.

The event served as a platform for reflection on the responsibilities of parenting in a fast-changing world, with attendees leaving inspired to adopt effective strategies to nurture the next generation.