The Oyo State Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning on Friday, 17th October 2025, held its Stakeholders Consultative Meeting on the Year 2026 Budget for the Ibadan Less City Zone at the Lagelu Local Government Secretariat, Iyana Offa.
The meeting brought together critical stakeholders including Chairmen of the six Local Governments within the zone—Lagelu, Ona Ara, Egbeda, Ido, Akinyele, and Oluyole—as well as representatives of traditional rulers, religious leaders, Community Development Councils (CDCs), Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), market associations, civil society groups, women, and youth organizations.
Speaking on behalf of the youth, Comrade Abdulazeez Mayowa Balogun commended Governor Seyi Makinde’s administration for its continuous investment in youth development across the state. He, however, urged the government to further establish vocational training centres across all LGAs within the zone and provide start-up tools and capital support to trainees upon graduation.
Balogun also appealed for stronger collaboration with uniformed Voluntary Youth Organizations (VYOs) in the areas of safety, security, and community policing, calling for the provision of patrol vehicles, communication gadgets, and surveillance cameras to enhance security across communities. He further requested improved healthcare access and welfare packages tailored to the needs of young people.
Responding, Hon. Akintunde AKT commended the youth for their active participation and constructive input. He advised them to compile and formally submit their proposals to their respective local government chairmen for onward transmission to the state government for necessary action.
The consultative meeting forms part of the state government’s inclusive budgeting process, ensuring that all voices especially those of the youth are heard in shaping the 2026 fiscal plan.
