The Osun State Commissioner for Youth Affairs, Hon. Olagunju Moshood Olalekan, has officially endorsed two young representatives for the forthcoming season 2 of the Strongest State Nigeria (SSN) reality TV show. The chosen contestants, Olabode Oladayo Shadrach and Oladele Oluwakemi Elizabeth, will represent Osun State in Abuja during the 60-day event scheduled from January to March 2025.
During the endorsement ceremony, Hon. Olagunju Moshood Olalekan expressed his confidence in the selected representatives, urging them to showcase the rich cultural heritage and unity of Osun State. He emphasized the importance of their role in promoting the state's dignity and pride on a national platform. "I believe in your capabilities and expect you to bring the trophy home. Represent Osun well, and let the world see the best of our culture and values," he advised.
The SSN reality TV show, first launched in 2019 in Kaduna State, aims to foster unity among Nigeria's diverse ethnic groups through cultural exhibitions and tasks. The contestants, selected through rigorous auditions in each state, will live together in an epic setting that mirrors the cultural traditions of Nigeria's states. Over the course of 60 days, they will engage in various challenges to earn points and avoid eviction, with the final three states competing for the title of the Strongest State in Nigeria.
The benefits of participating in SSN are manifold. The platform offers a unique opportunity to promote peaceful coexistence, highlight the state's cultural and economic potential, and attract foreign investment. Additionally, it provides a stage for the state government to communicate its initiatives and programs to a wider audience, thus fostering a greater understanding among different ethnicities.
With a substantial cash reward of N20,000,000 and hosting rights for the next season at stake, Olabode Oladayo Shadrach and Oladele Oluwakemi Elizabeth are set to embark on a significant journey. Their participation not only stands to bring glory to Osun State but also serves as evidence of the state's commitment to unity and youth empowerment.