Osun Govt Promotes Youth Inclusion In Governance

The Osun State Government says it is committed to strengthening youth inclusion in governance and decision-making, with new initiatives designed to highlight young experts excelling in entrepreneurship, leadership, and creative enterprise.

This was disclosed at a stakeholders’ convergence organised by the Ministry of Youth Affairs in Osogbo, which brought together government officials, civil society advocates, youth leaders, and entrepreneurs from across the state.

New Telegraph reports that the programme held under the theme “Youth Inclusion, Participation and Decision Making.”

Special Assistant to the Governor on State Affairs, Hon. Aare Abdumajeed Oladimeji Oyeniyi, explained that the initiative aims to give youths a platform to showcase potentials, share ideas, and encourage Osun-made products.

“Not everyone can be given a political appointment, and that is why we are charging our youths to come and learn from those who have become successful in their various fields.

“Our goal is to share ideas, showcase potentials, and encourage Osun-made products. To participate, we set a simple criterion: you must already be a CEO or actively leading a venture,” Oyeniyi said.

Describing Governor Adeleke administration as a youth friendly one, Oyeniyi pleaded with youth in the state to continue to support the governor saying, the governor have so many policies that will help their development.

Chairman of the planning committee, and Technical Adviser to the Honourable commissioner for Youth, Comrade Moses Adewuyi, added that the programme drew youth stakeholders from all 30 local government areas, noting that a communiqué capturing key resolutions and recommendations will be presented to Governor Ademola Adeleke.

Some participants commended the state government for ensuring fair and transparent selection.

Mr. Onitiju Kehinde, a polio survivor and disability community leader from Ife Central Local Government, describing his selection through an open process as a step away from political influence.

“When I saw the registration online, I was excited but thought political power would determine selection. To my surprise, I received an email inviting me as a participant,” Kehinde said, commending the government for giving persons with disabilities “a voice and opportunities beyond begging.”

Also speaking, Mrs. Ishola Modupe Olanrewaju, CEO of Oroki Foods, said despite holding a PhD, she is proud to run a successful pap (ogi) production business that empowers others.

She urged the government to support local producers through contracts, stressing that “we have the capacity to meet demands and create jobs.”

Osun State Commissioner for Youth , Hon Olagunju Moshood Olalekan

Meanwhile, the Commissioner for Youth , Hon Olagunju Moshood Olalekan reinstated the commitment of the present administration to youth development and women empowerment.

Olalekan who assured the youths of the state said Governor Adeleke Adeleke has been proactive in dealing decisively with issues having to do with youths to make positive impacts in their lives.

The ministry said the initiative will continue as part of ongoing efforts by the Adeleke administration to promote youth participation in governance and economic growth.