The Ibile Youth Academy is fulfilling its vision of equipping young people in Lagos State with the skills and values needed for a bright and impactful future.
Lagos State Commissioner for youth and social development, Mr Mobolaji Abubakre Ogunlende, stated this in his welcome address at the “One Day Leadership Seminar with Mr. Governor,” held on Thursday at the Adeyemi Bero Auditorium, Alausa, Ikeja.
The event, themed “The Future We Want, The Youth We Need,” gathered key stakeholders in youth development.
Ogunlende emphasized that the Ibile Youth Academy is a flagship program of the Lagos State Ministry of Youth and Social Development, aimed at inspiring and cultivating the next generation of leaders.
He said : “The Academy is designed to nurture leadership qualities, foster community engagement, and promote volunteerism among young Lagosians
“It is an essential platform for equipping our youth with the skills, knowledge, and values necessary to become agents of positive change and to assume leadership roles in society.”
The Commissioner highlighted the success of previous Ibile Youth Academy cohorts, noting that the leadership, civic responsibility, and volunteerism instilled in the participants have led to positive community impacts in various areas, including education and healthcare.
These youth, who served as Ibile Youth Ambassadors, organized initiatives that have benefited communities across the State.
In his own remarks on “The Future We Want, The Youth We Need,” the Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat praised the Academy for its role in transforming the mindset of Lagos youth.
He said the Academy has encouraged them to view leadership as an opportunity to serve their communities.
Obafemi reaffirmed the commitment of the present administration to youth development, urging young people to prioritize education, integrity, and self-belief.
The Deputy Governor said:
“Nigerians are among the brightest in every field across the globe.”
He said the state will encourage the youth to continue striving for excellence.
Dr. Dare Akinlaja, an author and speaker, also addressed the gathering on “Leadership and Social Change,” urging participants to view leadership as a platform to serve others rather than a means for self-aggrandizement.
In closing remarks, Mrs Toyin Oke-Osanyintolu, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, encouraged the youth to make the most use of the opportunities presented by the Ibile Youth Academy.
“As you are among the few selected from a large pool of applicants, I implore you to maximize this opportunity.
“Stay focused and dedicated as you move forward.
“This program is a gift, offered at no cost to you—use it to better yourself,” She said.
Highlight of the event is the announcement by the Deputy Governor of selection of 50 participants from across the five divisions of Lagos State who will proceed to the exclusive Ibile Youth Academy Residential Camp.
At the camp, five Divisional Ambassadors and one State Ambassador will be chosen to serve as team leaders, representing the Academy’s future leadership.
(vitalnewsngr.com)
