In commemoration of International Youth Day yesterday, the Executive Chairman of Ibadan North Local Government, Hon. Oluwaseun Olufade, hosted a significant youth forum at the council office in Agodi, Ibadan. Themed *”Engaging Youths in Government: A Panacea for Nigeria’s Current Situation,”* the event brought together young people from various walks of life to discuss issues affecting the nation and their roles in shaping the future.
The event was organized and anchored by the chairman’s Special Assistant on Education, Oloye Temitope Ajibola.
It provided a platform for the youth to engage directly with the chairman, fostering a dialogue aimed at ruminating and synergizing on the way forward.
In his opening remarks, Hon. Olufade expressed his joy at the presence of what he described as “beautiful, handsome, and wonderful people” in his office.
He reiterated his commitment to making a positive difference in the community and emphasized that Ibadan North is a unique and special local government in Oyo State. He highlighted that 80% of what makes Oyo State a Pacesetter State is domiciled within Ibadan North Local Government, citing institutions such as the Oyo State Governor’s Office, University of Ibadan, and University College Hospital.
Hon. Olufade explained that during his election campaign, he promised to focus on engaging with the people to understand their needs better.
This engagement with the youth, he said, is part of that commitment, aimed at collectively finding solutions to Nigeria’s current challenges.
The dialogue kicked off with the chairman discussing his reason for engaging the youth, which is to map out strategies together for addressing Nigeria’s problems. He shared his political journey, recounting how he actively joined politics in 2017/2018. Despite numerous setbacks, he persevered, and he attributed his current position to the support of the people of Ibadan North, noting that he did not even purchase the nomination form himself.
When asked why he chose the position of Executive Chairman rather than running for the Federal House of Representatives, Hon. Olufade explained that his passion lies in directly impacting people’s lives, regardless of the position
He also highlighted the importance of resilience, stating that public office requires significant sacrifices and that he is committed to working towards a better Nigeria.
Another attendee asked the chairman how Nigeria can be changed for the better. Hon. Olufade emphasized the need for a mindset shift among both leaders and followers, arguing that corruption is not only a problem among those in authority but also among the general populace.
On the subject of mentorship and youth empowerment, Hon. Olufade stated that he has several programs in place.
Although administration is a gradual process, he assured that mentorship and empowerment are key priorities for his administration.
Addressing questions on agriculture, Hon. Olufade acknowledged the urban nature of Ibadan North but revealed that he has acquired 10 hectares of land, with plans to acquire an additional 10 hectares, to support agricultural projects aimed at addressing food security.
He also mentioned a memorandum of understanding signed with the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) to empower and train youths interested in agriculture.
Regarding sports development, Hon. Olufade announced plans to build a sport center in Ibadan North, where various sporting activities and competitions will be held.
As a youth himself, he emphasized his commitment to promoting sports as a means of engaging the youth.
When asked about his achievements and plans for the future, Hon. Olufade highlighted the successful digitalization of the local government, including the installation of free Wi-Fi in the local government council for public use.
He mentioned that this initiative would be replicated in seven major markets within the local government.
On skill development, the chairman expressed his joy in supporting young people who are passionate about acquiring skills and education.
He shared that he is currently sponsoring a student’s education at The Polytechnic, Ibadan, and promised to continue supporting the youth in this regard.
The chairman also addressed concerns about the roles of his appointees, assuring that they are not just figureheads but are actively involved in the administration.
He provided an example of his Supervisory Councilor for Agriculture, who recently presented a proposal for agricultural development.
Responding to a question about the lack of women in politics, Hon. Olufade praised Governor Seyi Makinde for his inclusive approach, highlighting the significant roles that women play in the governor’s administration.
Regarding the entertainment industry, Hon. Olufade expressed his passion for promoting grassroots talent and announced plans to hold the first-ever Ibadan North Carnival later this year.
This event, he said, would showcase local talent and provide a platform for young entertainers.
In addressing the welfare of NYSC members, the chairman promised to build a lodge for corps members to improve their living conditions.
In her contribution, Ibadan North Local Government’s Director of Education and Social Services, Alhaja Najeemdin Qudrat, praised Hon. Oluwaseun Olufade for setting a good example for the youth by leading by example. She advised corps members to make the most of their assignments by transferring the knowledge they have acquired to students in secondary and primary schools.
She also encouraged them to take their roles seriously, as this would prepare them for future responsibilities.
Alhaja Qudrat also commended Governor Seyi Makinde for his innovative approach to public administration in Oyo State.
She emphasized the importance of mentorship, noting that having a mentor is crucial for personal and professional success.
The event also featured contributions from key dignitaries, including the Deputy Chief of Staff to Governor Seyi Makinde, Hon. Folajimi Oyekunle Don, and Oyo State PDP Youth Leader and Acting Publicity Secretary, Hon. Michael Ogunsina.
They provided insights on navigating the political landscape, emphasizing the importance of consistency, resourcefulness, and meaningful participation in politics.
Youth leaders and entrepreneurs, including Mr. Deji of Panthers Hub and Yetunde Ajanaku, Founder of Ibadan Ladies Hub, also shared their experiences, urging the youth to live impactful lives and calling on the government to support young entrepreneurs.
In his closing remarks, Hon. Oluwaseun Olufade thanked the participants and dignitaries for their attendance and assured them that his office remains open to all.
He reiterated his commitment to continuous engagement with the youth and encouraged them to stay involved in the development of the local government.
At the end of the program, a cake was cut to celebrate the day, group photographs were taken with the chairman, and everyone who attended the program was given refreshments.
Notable dignitaries in attendance included the Leader of Ibadan North Local Government Legislative Council, Hon. Taiwo Adebola; Chief of Staff of Ibadan North Local Government, Hon. Hamdy Mustapha; Director of Education and Social Services, Alhaja Najeemdin Qudrat; Ibadan North Local Government Information Officer, Mrs. Lala Olufunke; Councilors, supervisory councilors and several other invited guests.
