The Honourable Commissioner for Youth Affairs in Osun State, Hon. Olagunju Moshood Olalekan, has urged youths across the state to step forward and take active roles in governance, emphasizing that they are not just the leaders of tomorrow, but of today.
Hon. Olagunju made this passionate call during his welcome address at the Osun State Youth Dialogue held at the Osogbo Grammar School Mega Hall. Themed “The Role of Youth in Good Governance,” the event brought together a vibrant cross-section of youth leaders, civil society representatives, students, and government officials to deliberate on the crucial role of young people in shaping governance and leadership structures.
In his speech, the Commissioner remarked, “Your voices, your energy, your creativity, and your desire for change are the foundation of a better Osun State. Youth must not wait for the future, they are already the change agents of today.”
Hon. Olagunju praised the visionary leadership of His Excellency, Governor Senator (Dr.) Ademola Jackson Nurudeen Adeleke, for his continued support for youth development, as well as the commitment of the Special Assistant on Youth Affairs, Hon. Aare Mojeed Oyeniyi. He assured attendees that the Ministry of Youth Affairs remains dedicated to providing more inclusive platforms for youth engagement and decision-making.
“This program is not just another gathering,” Hon. Olalekan added. “It is a platform for reflection, for sharing ideas, and most importantly, for empowering youths to take their rightful place in shaping the future of our dear state and nation.”
He concluded by encouraging participants to actively engage in governance, learn from one another, and leave with a renewed sense of responsibility and vision.
Panelists at the event included:
Hon. Olatunji Dele Maruff Ayofe (ably represented by the Director, Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology )
Com. Ridwan Ayofe (Abinuwaye), SSA, O’Signage
Amb. Com. Adebisi O. Emmanuel, SSA on Civil Society
Hon. Ajala Adetunji, SSA
David, SSA, Community and Grassroots Engagement
Com. Babawale Jamiu Popoola
Other notable dignitaries present were:
Hon. Famokunwa Obasanmi, SSA to the Governor on Imole Youth Corps
Hon. Prince Adewole Gbenga, Osun State PDP Youth Leader
Hon. Akintunde Lukman (LUCAS), Deputy State Youth Leader, Osun PDP
Hon. Segun Oyewale, SA to the Governor on Youth Mobilization
Mrs. Taiwo Oladunjoye, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Youth Affairs
Directors of the Ministry of Youth Affairs
Members of Osun Youth and Elders Advocate for Good Governance (O’YEAGG)
Memebers of Red-Cross, Osun State Chapter
Members of Peace Corps of Nigeria
Members of Man O'War, Nigeria
And other distinguished guests.
The Osun State Youth Dialogue stands as a testament to the state's commitment to youth empowerment and inclusive governance.
E-signed:
Hon. Olagunju Moshood Olalekan
Commissioner for Youth Affairs, Osun State.
