In commemoration of the 2024 International Youth Day, the CEO of Maya Awards Africa, who also serves as the Special Adviser on Education to the Ibadan North Chairman, Hon. Ademola Titilopemi Ajibola, popularly known as “ATA,” hosted the 3rd edition of Itesiwaju Oyo Synergy on Monday, August 12th, 2024.
The event featured notable figures such as the Executive Chairman of Ibadan North LGA, Hon. Oluwaseun Olufade, the Deputy Chief of Staff to the Governor of Oyo State, Hon. Folajimi Oyekunle (DoN), Oyo State PDP Youth Leader and Acting Publicity Secretary of the party, Hon. Michael Ogunsina, and the Director of Education and Social Services for Ibadan North LGA, Alhaja Najeemdin Qudrat.
The insightful and engaging conversation centred on “Engaging Youths in Government: A Panacea for Nigeria’s Current Situation.”
Hon. Ademola, an enterprising young man actively involved in local politics in Oyo State, is known for his consistent efforts in youth development, engagement, and inclusion in Nigeria.
As the founder of MAYA Awards Africa, a pan-African platform that discovers, celebrates, and encourages youths across the continent and beyond, he has made significant contributions to the empowerment of young people.
The event was held at the office of the Executive Chairman of Ibadan North LGA, Agodi, Ibadan.
It brought together young people from various walks of life to discuss the pressing issues affecting the nation and their roles in shaping the future. In his opening remarks, Hon. Ademola explained his decision to invite Hon. Oluwaseun Olufade to speak to the 40 under-40 youths, citing him as an ideal voice to address the importance of youth involvement in politics.
In his speech, Hon. Olufade offered a brilliant perspective on how the youth of this generation can empower themselves and engage actively in government.
He emphasized the importance of starting from the community level: “As a youth who wants to be actively engaged in government, start from your community. Change begins with you. There must be something you’re doing within your community that announces your presence. People in your community must feel your presence and recognize that you’re doing something great. From there, you can strategize and position yourself for greatness.”
Hon. Olufade also reiterated his commitment to making a positive difference in the community. He highlighted that Ibadan North is a unique and special local government in Oyo State, with 80% of what makes Oyo State a Pacesetter State being domiciled within it, citing institutions such as the Oyo State Government House and Secretariat, the University of Ibadan, and the University College Hospital, National Television, NTA, etc.
While responding to a question from Ibadan Media’s correspondence at the event on his achievements and plans for the future, Hon. Olufade noted the successful digitalization of the local government, including the installation of free Wi-Fi at the local government council for public use, a project that will soon be expanded to seven major markets within the local government. On skill development, he expressed his satisfaction in supporting young people passionate about acquiring skills and education. He shared that he is currently sponsoring a student’s education at The Polytechnic, Ibadan, and promised to continue supporting the youth in various ways.
Alhaja Najeemdin Qudrat, the Director of Education and Social Services for Ibadan North LGA, commended Hon. Oluwaseun Olufade for setting a positive example for the youth by leading with integrity. She advised corps members to make the most of their assignments by transferring the knowledge they have acquired to students in secondary and primary schools and encouraged them to take their roles seriously, as this would prepare them for future responsibilities.
The event also featured contributions from key dignitaries, including the Deputy Chief of Staff to Governor Seyi Makinde, Hon. Folajimi Oyekunle Don, and Oyo State PDP Youth Leader and Acting Publicity Secretary, Hon. Michael Ogunsina. They provided insights into navigating the political landscape, emphasizing the importance of consistency, resourcefulness, and meaningful participation in politics, while urging the youth to lead impactful lives.
Notable dignitaries in attendance included the Leader of Ibadan North Local Government Legislative Council, Hon. Taiwo Adebola; Chief of Staff of Ibadan North Local Government, Hon. Hamdy Mustapha; Director of Education and Social Services, Alhaja Najeemdin Qudrat; Ibadan North Local Government Information Officer, Mrs Lala Olufunke; as well as councillors, supervisory councillors, and several other guests.
