Empowering the Future: Ibadan North Council Chairman Hosts Youth Forum

International Youth Day: Ibadan North Council Chairman, Olufade Hosts Strategic Conversation with Youth

In commemoration of International Youth Day, the Executive Chairman of Ibadan North Local Government, Hon. Oluwaseun Olufade, hosted a significant youth forum at the council office in Agodi, Ibadan. The event, themed *”Engaging Youths in Government: A Panacea for Nigeria’s Current Situation,”* gathered young people from various walks of life to discuss pressing national issues and their roles in shaping Nigeria’s future.

Organized and anchored by the chairman’s Special Assistant on Education, Oloye Temitope Ajibola, the forum provided a platform for youth to engage directly with Hon. Olufade, 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 the “beautiful, handsome, and wonderful people” in his office. He reiterated his commitment to making a positive difference in the community, emphasizing the unique and special nature of Ibadan North Local Government, which houses significant 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 better understand their needs. This engagement with the youth, he said, is part of that commitment, aimed at collectively finding solutions to Nigeria’s current challenges. He shared his political journey, recounting how he actively joined politics in 2017/2018, persevering through numerous setbacks with the support of the people of Ibadan North.

Addressing questions on various topics, Hon. Olufade highlighted the importance of resilience, the need for a mindset shift among both leaders and followers, and his plans for mentorship and youth empowerment. He revealed initiatives in agriculture, sports development, digitalization, and skill development, emphasizing his administration’s dedication to supporting young people. The event also featured contributions from key dignitaries and youth leaders, who shared insights on navigating the political landscape and living impactful lives. In closing, Hon. Olufade thanked the participants and dignitaries for their attendance, reaffirming his commitment to continuous engagement with the youth.