The Minister of State for Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande Wisdom, Oyo State Agency for Youth Development, Prince Adebowale Falana on Monday engaged the state youth on government developmental projects.
Prince Adebowale and the teaming Oyo youth of various organizations interacted with the minister at the conference Hall, Youth Agency, Oyo State Secretariat, Ibadan.
While welcoming the minister, Oyo Agency Chairman Adebowale acknowledged the initiatives of the executive Governor of Oyo State, Engr Seyi Makinde, on various youth engagement, Empowerment, and development that are beneficial to the youth.
He also emphasized the federal government programs on youth initiatives and sought for collaboration of both the Oyo State government and federal government on more youth programs that will focus on creating opportunities for youth engagement, skill development, and entrepreneurship as well as addressing their needs.
He said the gathering was focused on youth development through direct dialogue with the federal government. He expressed optimism about the potential outcomes of such engagements.
In his statement, the Senior Assistant to the governor on Student Affairs, Comr. Victor Olojede commended the Minister and the Chairman of the Oyo State Youth Development Agency. He highlighted the importance of student participation in nation-building and advocated for greater involvement of student bodies in federal initiatives
Also, Oyo State PDP Youth leader and acting Publicity Secretary, Hon. Ogunsina Micheal, said the courtesy visit of the Honorable e State Minister for Youths. He called on the youth to put aside parochial and primordial interests towards a better future.
“We must empower our young people to take ownership of their future and create a world,” he said
Ogunsina further acknowledged the fact that the honorable State Minister is a shining example for Youths in governance which is a replica in the appointment of the People’s Governor in Pacesetter State, Engr Seyi Makinde FNSE.
In his reaction, the minister, Ayodele Olawande, commended the Oyo state youth for their commitment to good governance; he reiterated his commitment to ensuring the success of his ministry.
He emphasized that his office would remain non-partisan and encouraged the youth to prioritize development over political affiliations.
The Minister urged the Oyo state youth to proactively engage with government initiatives through what he termed “Aggressive Engagement.” He stressed the importance of self-reflection and genuine reconciliation, cautioning against the dangers of comparing oneself with others, which he identified as a root cause of many societal issues.
The youth organizations present expressed their desire for increased involvement in various federal government youth initiatives. They voiced their commitment to contributing to the development of the state and the nation. Among youth organizations in attendance include Entertainment Stakeholders led by Don T, the Association of Registered Social Youth Clubs (ARSOYOC), the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), the Federation of Boys and Girls Clubs ( PROTAAN), and others.
