
The Oyo State Government has reiterated its commitment to providing an environment to further harness the energy, creativity and resilience of the youth in the state.
The state Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Wasilat Adegoke, said this in Ibadan on Monday while opening a week-long event of activities to celebrate the 2024 International Youth Day (IYD).
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that IYD is celebrated every Aug. 12 to recognise youths’ efforts at enhancing the global society and promoting their engagement in community development.
The commissioner said that the administration of Gov. Seyi Makinde would continue to ensure the creation of the right atmosphere for youth participation in the development of the state.
She, however, charged the youths to always strive to showcase their talents and air their voice in positive ways capable of shaping the future of the country.
Adegoke added that the week-long event would feature a business fair and exhibition for young entrepreneurs, a visit to a correctional facility and a novelty match among others.
Meanwhile, Mr Abdulquadri Abdulsalam, Chairman, National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), Oyo State Chapter, urged the government to be more committed to the empowerment of youths in the state.
He called for the creation of a conducive atmosphere where every young person would enjoy the chance to thrive and contribute meaningfully to the nation’s development.
“We urge our leaders to properly harness the energy and enthusiasm of youths in the country to drive positive change, promote inclusivity, and build a better tomorrow for all.
“Youths also must see themselves as the architects of their destiny. We must know that our dreams, aspirations, and actions have the power to transform our nation,” he said.
NAN reports the opening of the week-long event witnessed an awareness walk of major streets and an environmental clean-up exercise of markets by the Oyo State Ministry of Youths and Sports.
The exercise was carried out in collaboration with NYCN. (NAN