In a bold move to strengthen youth leadership and community inclusion, the Atakunmosa West Youth and Student Leaders Engagement was successfully held on Tuesday, May 6th, 2025, at Imelejo Hall, Oke Omi, Osu. The event convened youth and student leaders from various towns and villages across Atakunmosa West Local Government Area, creating a vibrant platform for dialogue, collaboration, and strategic planning. The engagement was spearheaded by Comrade Akinbode Olakolupo Oluwasegun, Chairman of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), Osun State Chapter, and served as a critical point of convergence for diverse voices within the constituency.
The engagement featured open-floor discussions, strategic breakout sessions, and the sharing of community-based experiences. Participants reflected on the current state of youth involvement in governance, education, and community development while identifying practical ways to enhance representation and unify the student and youth bodies in the region. The session allowed for cross-community networking and emphasized the importance of collective responsibility, mentorship, and sustainable leadership among the next generation.
Following deliberations, key resolutions were passed to guide post-event activities. These include: (1) the institutionalization of the engagement as a recurring initiative to encourage consistent dialogue and action, (2) the formation of a dedicated working committee tasked with implementing decisions, coordinating future engagements, and strengthening youth structures, and (3) a strong emphasis on inclusivity, ensuring all communities within Atakunmosa West are represented in future youth development initiatives. These resolutions were received with great enthusiasm, with attendees pledging their support and active participation in the implementation phase.
The engagement marked a renewed commitment to a unified, visionary, and development-driven youth base. Comrade Akinbode expressed appreciation to all participants and reaffirmed his dedication to building a stronger youth constituency across Osun State. He noted that youth are not just the leaders of tomorrow but active stakeholders of today and must be equipped and empowered to take responsibility in community transformation and grassroots governance.
The event ended on a high note, with participants departing with a clear sense of purpose, stronger connections, and actionable strategies. As a first-of-its-kind gathering within the local government, the Atakunmosa West Youth and Student Leaders Engagement has set a new standard for participatory development and youth-led policy formulation. Plans are already underway for follow-up meetings and the formal inauguration of the working committee.