Igbo-Baiyeku Local Council Development Area in Lagos has reaffirmed its commitment to youth empowerment through a transformative mentorship to mark International Youth Day.
With the theme: ‘Local Youth Actions for SDGs and Beyond’, the event brought together experts, youth leaders, and community mentors to equip the young people with knowledge, skills, and connections.
Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Mobolaji Ogunlende, hailed the council for organising the programme. Ogunlende said he felt fulfilled after listening to testimonials from the panellists.
The commissioner promised collaboration between the ministry and councils to expand youth-focused initiatives.
Ogunlende outlined programmes initiated by Ministry of Youth and Sports to empower young people, including Business Amplifier Clinic, Ibile Youth Academy, and a partnership with Lafarge on an initiative targeting women in the informal sector.
He said: “This programme is designed to promote gender equality and empowerment, because we strongly believe that what a man can do, a woman can do, and even better.
“These initiatives are for the benefit of our youths. We are providing the platform, and it is up to them to seize it. My role is to advocate and ensure they are aware of these opportunities.”
The commissioner also advised youths to stay focused, build value, carve out a niche for themselves, and develop the habit of reading.
The Council Chairman, Hameed Aroyewun, said the event provided an opportunity for young people to reflect on how local actions can contribute meaningfully to sustainable development.
According to him, the 2025 International Youth Day theme highlights the passion, creativity, and resilience that define young people.
He said: “Youths are not just leaders of tomorrow; they are leaders of today, catalysts of change and partners in progress. When equipped with knowledge, mentorship, and opportunity, they rise above every limitation and become the builders of a future that is inclusive, prosperous, and peaceful.”
President of the Igbogbo Youth Forum, Adeleke Dankuwo, noted that the mentorship programme was designed to create awareness and expose youth to opportunities beyond government employment.
He said: “You don’t have to wait for government jobs. You can employ yourself, you can be an entrepreneur, and that is what this kind of programme is all about, helping you discover yourself and realise you can achieve a lot with even little support from the government.”
Dankuwo also encouraged participants to focus on success stories and learn from role models who have achieved greatness despite challenges.
The event was also attended by other council chairmen, including Moyosore Adebanjo (Onigbongbo); Bola Oladunjoye (Ikoyi-Obalende); Ameen Apanisile (Ikorodu-North); Adedayo Ladega (Ikorodu).
