The Honourable Commissioner of the Ministry of Youth Affairs, Honourable Olagunju Moshood Olalekan, under the administration of His Excellency, Senator (Dr.) Ademola Jackson Nurudeen Adeleke, delivered a compelling welcome address at the 2024 International Youth Day Celebration, held on Monday, August 12th, 2024, at the Local Government Service Commission Hall, Abere, Osun
In his address, Honourable Moshood expressed his pleasure in welcoming the esteemed guests and participants to this significant annual event, dedicated to celebrating the youth of the state. He emphasized the importance of International Youth Day, as declared by the United Nations, which recognizes the contributions of young people to the development of their societies.
The celebration this year has "From Click to Progress: Youth Digital Pathways for Sustainable Development" as its theme, which emphasizes the critical role that youth play in advancing digital technologies and, consequently, the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The Honorable Moshood acknowledged that digital technologies play a major role in the development of the country and commended the youth for their involvement in it.
Prince Kola Adewusi, Governor Adeleke's deputy, reiterated the administration's commitment to youth development as a pillar of good governance and nation-building. He highlighted the imminent launch of the Imole Youth Corps Scheme, an initiative aimed at addressing youth unemployment, poverty, and restiveness within the state. The Governor urged the youth to shun social vices and actively support the government's efforts to uplift Osun State. As the address concluded, the atmosphere was filled with a renewed sense of hope and determination, with the youth being reminded of their critical role in shaping a brighter, more sustainable future for themselves and their communities.
Various youth organizations across the state were invited to participate at the event to grace it ,as it was mainly organized to celebrate them.
An Expert Educator, Dr. Segun Oduyebon was also engaged to deliver a lecture on the theme, coupled with motivational talks and other engaging activities designed to make the celebration both informative and enjoyable.
Honourable Moshood used the opportunity to commend the Osun State Government, under the leadership of His Excellency, Senator Ademola Jackson Nurudeen Adeleke, for its unwavering commitment to youth development. He highlighted the various programs initiated by the government aimed at boosting youth empowerment, development, wealth creation, poverty reduction, and tackling youth unemployment in both Osun State and Nigeria as a whole.
The Commissioner urged the youth to continue to support and cooperate with the present administration to ensure the continued uplifting of Osun State.
The event was graced by several dignitaries, including the Governor of Osun State, Senator (Dr.) Ademola Jackson Nurudeen Adeleke, who was represented by his Deputy, Prince Kola Adewusi. Other notable attendees included Orangun of Oke Ila Oba Adedokun Abolarin, Chairman of the House Committee on Youth, Abiola Awoyeye; Chairman Local Government Commission, Tunji Adeleke, Senior Special Assistant (SSA) on Imole Youth, Stephen Famokunwa; the Commissioner for Science Innovation and Technology, Honourable Maruff Ayofe; the Commissioner for Water Resources, Honourable Olufemi Oroniyi; and the National Vice President of the National Youth Council of Nigeria, Otunba Eniola Tope and among others.
In his closing remarks, Honourable Moshood through his Permanent Secretary. Mrs Taiwo Oladunjoye once again thanked all attendees for being part of the celebration and wished everyone a happy International Youth Day. He concluded his speech by extending his gratitude and invoked blessings upon all present.
The 2024 International Youth Day Celebration in Osun State was, however, the government's dedication to fostering youth development and ensuring that the young people of Osun State continue to thrive and contribute meaningfully to society.