Your Excellency, the Executive Governor of Osun State, Senator Ademola Jackson Nurudeen Adeleke,
The Deputy Governor, Prince Kola Adewusi,
The Speaker prince Adewale Egbedun, Hon Abiola AWOYEYE Jeremiah, chairman House committee on youth, Sport and special needs, and Members of the Osun State House of Assembly,
The Honourable Commissioner for Youth Affairs, Hon Olálékan Moshood Olagunju,
Our Royal Father of the day, Oba (Dr.) Michael Odunayo Ajayi JP, Arowotawaya II, the Elerinmo of Erinmo Ijesa— my very own father, mentor, leader and role model, Respected Youth Stakeholders,
Heads of Voluntary Youth Organisations, distinguished guests, members of the press, and my dear brothers and sisters in the youth community,
I welcome you all with gratitude and excitement to this year’s International Youth Day celebration. This is more than just a date on the global calendar — it is a reminder of who we are, the challenges we face, and the heights we can reach when we work together.
In the last few days, the Osun State Chapter of the National Youth Council of Nigeria has been on the move, celebrating this special occasion with activities designed to inspire, empower, and unite us. We began with a press conference, held a Jumat service, and yesterday we launched one of the most impactful initiatives; the Skill Up Osun empowerment programme.
Through the support of the Osun State Government under our indefatigable Governor, Sen Nurudeen Ademola Adeleke, about 100 young people will now training in practical, income-generating skills — solar and CCTV installation, electrical installation, content creation, data analytics, digital marketing, plumbing, and pipe fitting. More than 25 participants also received direct business grants to support their ventures. This is not just training — it is the planting of seeds that will grow into businesses, jobs, and community development.
Your Excellency, we sincerely commend your youth-friendly approach to governance. Osun is blessed to have one of the youngest Houses of Assemblies in the country with over 70% Members below 40years, and your appointments of capable many young people as Senior Special Assistant and Special is highly commendable particularly the appointment of Comrade Abdulmajeed Oyeniyi and Comrade Adetunji Ajala show your trust in the potential of the youth council.
However, it is important to face the truth: Osun youths still have urgent needs that should be addressed if we are to truly unleash their potential.
These needs are not mere requests — they are the foundation for a stronger, more prosperous Osun.
THE NEEDS OF OSUN YOUTH
* Adequate Subventions for our voluntary Youth Organisations
Many of our Voluntary Youth Organisations are operating with little or no funding, despite their vital role in mobilising, educating, and mentoring young people. Adequate subventions will enable them to run impactful programmes consistently, especially at the grassroots level. This can be done quarterly, bi annually or annually. As bursary is for students, subvention is for the youth council.
* A Functional and Well-Equipped Youth House Secretariat
We need a central hub where youth leaders can plan, collaborate, and innovate. This Secretariat should be more than just an office — it should be a resource centre equipped with training facilities, ICT infrastructure, and meeting spaces that reflect the value we place on youth leadership.
* Sustainable and Large-Scale Skill Acquisition Programmes
One-off trainings are not enough. We need continuous, structured programmes that are accessible to youth in all zones of the state. These should be aligned with emerging industries — technology, renewable energy, agriculture, and creative arts — so our young people can compete globally.
* Provision of a Mobility Bus and Running Costs for NYCN
The State Executive Council of the NYCN coordinates youth activities across 30 local governments and one area office. Without reliable transportation and operational funds, our reach and effectiveness are limited. A mobility bus will ensure we are physically present where we are needed most.
* Strategic Interventions to Curb Social Vices
Drug abuse, internet fraud, and cultism are eating away at the future of our youth. We need targeted interventions — rehabilitation programmes, awareness campaigns, sports development, and most importantly, better alternatives in education, work, and recreation.
* Dedicated Funding and Support for Youth-Led Businesses
Entrepreneurship is one of the fastest ways to reduce unemployment. With access to low-interest loans, mentorship, and market linkages, youth-led businesses can grow to create jobs and reduce poverty in our communities.
These needs are not luxuries — they are investments. Every kobo spent on youth empowerment today will save us millions in crime prevention, poverty alleviation, and social rehabilitation tomorrow.
To my fellow youths: we cannot wait for change to happen around us — we must be part of it. Seek knowledge. Take the skills given to you and turn them into opportunities. Build your dreams with discipline and determination.
To the heads of Voluntary Youth Organisations, I salute you. I know the personal sacrifices you make to guide and mobilise others. You are the field commanders in this struggle for youth development, and together we will keep pressing forward.
Once again, I thank His Excellency, the Honourable Commissioner for Youth Affairs, and the entire Ministry team for their supervisory role on NYCN in building a brighter future for our young people. This is just the beginning — with unity, vision, and commitment, Osun youth will rise to their rightful place.
Thank you,
God bless NYCN
God bless Osun state
God bless the federal republic of Nigeria
happy International Youth Day.
Build the youth! Build the nation
*Signed,*
Comrade Akinbode Olakolupo Oluwasegun Omoakin
Chairman, NYCN Osun State Chapter