Osogbo, Osun State
The National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), Osun State Chapter, has made a remarkable leap in youth development with the successful hosting of the Osun Tech Conference 2025 an event that brought together leading voices in technology, innovators, creators and policymakers for a transformative day of learning and collaboration.
Held in Osogbo, the conference marked a defining moment in Osun’s digital journey, placing the state’s youths at the forefront of discussions on Artificial Intelligence (AI), digital innovation and the future of work. With an impressive turnout from across the state, the event highlighted the growing desire among young people to participate actively in shaping the state’s technological and economic direction.
The programme was spearheaded by the NYCN Directorate of ICT under the leadership of Taye Matthew Abdulahi. The Directorate received widespread praise for delivering what many described as one of the most organised and purpose-driven youth events in recent years. For the first time in the council’s history, a single directorate successfully executed a programme of this scale a milestone that underscored the evolving capacity and vision within the youth council.
The conference featured inspiring keynote presentations from seasoned experts in the digital space. Among them were Dr. James Folorunso, Director of ICT at the University of Ilesa; Dr. Segun Aina, OFR, represented by Mrs. Eze of Opolo Global Hub; and Mr. Daud Suleiman Abiola (OmoAlhaja), Founder of SkillAfrica. Their contributions centred on the responsible and creative use of AI, positioning it as a powerful tool for enhancing productivity, governance, and youth empowerment.
In addition to technical insights, the gathering enjoyed strong institutional and royal support. The Honourable Commissioner for Youth Affairs, Hon. Moshood Olagunju, was represented by Hon. Babawale Jamiu Popoola. In his address, he commended the council’s initiative, describing the conference as a strategic intervention that aligns with the state government’s commitment to digital growth.
Royal blessings came from the Ọwá of Ìgbájo, Oba Dr. A.S.K. Makinde, whose goodwill message resonated deeply with participants. The monarch encouraged young people to pursue innovation with optimism, urging them to “think positive, use what you have to get what you don’t have, and use AI for a good purpose.”
The NYCN Chairman, Akinbode Olakolupo Oluwasegun, also delivered a heartfelt address, praising the ICT Directorate for setting a new standard within the council. He described the conference as a landmark achievement, noting its potential to serve as a blueprint for future youth-focused engagements in the state.
The Honourable Commissioner for Agriculture, Otunba Tola Faseru, who was also present, drew attention to the vital connection between agriculture and technology. He highlighted how AI and digital innovations could improve food systems, enhance productivity and create new opportunities for young farmers across Osun State.
Security featured prominently as well. The Head of ICT for the Nigeria Police Force, Osun Command, SP Akanni Ezekiel, offered a strong submission on the role of digital technology in modern policing. He called for closer cooperation between tech innovators, security agencies and the youth population.
Other dignitaries, including Hon. Adeyemi Adewumi (Irekandu), took turns to acknowledge the importance of youth-driven solutions in building a digitally competitive Osun.
Panelists and contributors across diverse sectors echoed a unified message: Osun must continue to invest in youth-centered programmes that boost digital literacy, innovation and career readiness. Participants were encouraged to embrace AI tools, build digital competencies and apply technology creatively to solve real-life challenges in their communities.
Beyond speeches and sessions, the atmosphere of the event reflected a renewed enthusiasm among young people. Many attendees expressed confidence that initiatives like the Osun Tech Conference could spark new ideas, collaborations and pathways for economic advancement.
The NYCN Osun State Chapter affirmed its commitment to sustaining such transformative platforms. With the success of the 2025 conference, the council hopes to foster a stronger, more digitally aware youth population prepared to contribute meaningfully to the state’s future.
As Osun advances into a new era of innovation, technology and youth empowerment, the Osun Tech Conference 2025 stands out as a statement of possibility proving that when young people are given the right platform, they rise to the challenge with creativity, ambition and impactful solutions.