Oyo State Tackles Unemployment with Youth Empowerment
In a significant stride towards tackling unemployment in Oyo State, Deputy Governor Barrister Bayo Lawal announced the empowerment of over 500 youths in the Oluyole Local Government Area. The initiative, which provides start-up capital and vocational tools, was unveiled during a ceremony at the Oluyole Local Government headquarters in Idi-Ayunre—the program, spearheaded by the Executive Chairman of Oluyole Local Government, Engr. Akeem Olatunji marks a transformative moment for grassroots development in the state.
The Deputy Governor lauded Olatunji’s initiative as a “game-changer,” emphasising its alignment with the state’s broader efforts to combat unemployment and promote economic growth. “Olatunji has set an example for how a local government can create impactful change at the grassroots,” Lawal stated. He urged the beneficiaries to leverage the resources provided to build sustainable businesses and contribute to society.
Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin, Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly and Chairman of the Nigeria Conference of Speakers of State Legislatures, echoed the Deputy Governor’s sentiments. Ogundoyin commended the initiative not only for providing vocational training but also for equipping beneficiaries with the tools and resources needed to succeed. “This is a clear demonstration of good governance at the grassroots,” Ogundoyin remarked, urging other local governments to replicate Oluyole’s approach.
The program’s success reflects a broader commitment to impactful governance in Oyo State. Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Otunba Ademola Ojo, attributed Oluyole’s achievements to the visionary leadership of Governor Seyi Makinde. Ojo highlighted the governor’s prioritisation of infrastructure, social welfare, and economic empowerment as key drivers of progress. “We owe this transformation to Governor Makinde’s exemplary leadership,” Ojo said. He noted the visible development across Ibadan, particularly in Oluyole, as evidence of the administration’s positive impact.
Dr. Nureni Adeniran, Executive Chairman of the Oyo State Universal Basic Education Board (OYSUBEB), praised the collaborative relationship between Oluyole Local Government and SUBEB. He emphasised the importance of local governments taking an active role in supervising public schools to enhance grassroots education. “The synergy between the local government and SUBEB is commendable. Such collaboration is essential for improving education at the grassroots,” Adeniran stated.
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In his welcome address, Engr. Akeem Olatunji expressed gratitude for the state government’s support and reaffirmed his commitment to grassroots empowerment. He encouraged beneficiaries to seize the opportunities provided and work diligently to build successful enterprises. “Today, we are not just handing out equipment; we are giving you the keys to your future,” Olatunji declared, urging the beneficiaries to approach their ventures with determination and hard work.
Olatunji also underscored Governor Makinde’s support as pivotal to the program’s success. “Governor Makinde’s leadership has demonstrated his unwavering commitment to uplifting the people of Oyo State. I am proud to be his political disciple,” he said. The chairman assured the audience that more initiatives aimed at empowering the people of Oluyole would be unveiled in the coming year.
The event also served as a platform to recognise the contributions of various stakeholders in Oluyole’s development. Former Oluyole Local Government Chairman Hon. Abass Aleshinloye, a leader in the All Progressives Congress, commended Olatunji for revitalising the local government and ensuring sustained progress. Reflecting on his tenure, Aleshinloye praised the chairman’s inclusive governance style and urged him to continue engaging with the community. “If people are clapping for you, continue doing well. If there are complaints, listen and adjust your approach. For now, you’re doing very well,” Aleshinloye remarked.
Other dignitaries, including Hon. Rahaman Olorunpoto, Hon. Waheed Akintayo, Hon. Babalola Abiodun, and party leader Dr. Gbola Adetunji, echoed the deputy governor’s praise. Each expressed satisfaction with Oluyole’s progress and encouraged other local governments to emulate its model of governance.
The initiative’s focus on vocational training and start-up capital aims to foster economic independence among youths, addressing one of the root causes of unemployment in Oyo State. By providing beneficiaries with practical skills and resources, the program empowers them to become self-reliant and contribute to the local economy.
Olatunji’s administration has also prioritised community engagement, ensuring that the voices of grassroots residents are heard and integrated into governance. This participatory approach has strengthened trust between the government and the people, paving the way for sustainable development.
The ceremony concluded with a call to action for continued collaboration among stakeholders. As beneficiaries embark on their entrepreneurial journeys, the state government remains committed to supporting initiatives that drive economic growth and improve the quality of life for its citizens.
Olatunji reiterated his commitment to empowering the people of Oluyole, describing the initiative as “the tip of the iceberg.” He assured the audience that more programs aimed at fostering economic growth and social welfare would be rolled out in the coming months.
The event’s success underscores the importance of effective grassroots governance in tackling unemployment and promoting economic empowerment. As Oyo State continues to prioritise initiatives that uplift its citizens, the Oluyole model serves as a shining example of the transformative potential of local government leadership.
Content Credit| Ajibola Emmanuel Adebayo
Picture Credit | https://cresthillsmedia.com/911fm/oyo-state-government-announces-plans-to-empower-500-youths-across-lgas/
