Solanke Ayomideji Taiwo
The Senior Special Assistant (SSA) on Inter-Ethnic Affairs in Ogun State, Prince Hadi Sani, has commended the organisers of the Dapo Abiodun Youth Forum (DAYF) for the successful execution of its 2025 Youth Empowerment Programme, describing it as a timely and impactful intervention for young entrepreneurs across the state.
The empowerment programme, themed “Business Summit and Cash Empowerment Grant,” saw the disbursement of ₦100,000 each to 200 youths, amounting to a total of ₦20 million, to support and expand their existing businesses.
Prince Sani specifically applauded the Chairman of DAYF, Hon. Rasheed Aroboto, alongside other committee members, for their dedication and organisational capacity in ensuring the programme’s success. He urged beneficiaries to make judicious and productive use of the financial support to grow their businesses and contribute meaningfully to the state’s economy.
According to him, the initiative reflects the vision of the Ogun State Government to promote youth inclusion, economic self-reliance, and peaceful coexistence among the diverse ethnic groups in the state.
The SSA also expressed deep appreciation to the Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, CON, for his unwavering support for youth-focused programmes, describing him as one of the most youth-friendly governors in Nigeria. He noted that the governor’s leadership continues to create opportunities for young people to thrive socially and economically.
The programme was held at the June 12 Cultural Centre, Kuto, Abeokuta, and attracted youths from all parts of Ogun State. Participants showcased a wide range of entrepreneurial skills and innovative business ideas spanning various sectors, including fashion, agriculture, technology, crafts, and small-scale manufacturing.
Selection of beneficiaries was conducted through a transparent online application process that received over 6,000 applications. Shortlisted applicants were later invited to physically present their business ideas and demonstrate their skill acquisition capacity before a final list of 200 beneficiaries was approved.
In his address, the Chairman of DAYF, Hon. Rasheed Aroboto, who also serves as the Special Assistant to Governor Dapo Abiodun on Sports Development, praised the governor for his sustained commitment to youth empowerment and development.
Aroboto explained that the cash empowerment programme was deliberately designed to support young entrepreneurs and artisans in expanding their businesses, improving their livelihoods, and reducing unemployment across the state.
He stated that the ₦20 million disbursed would enable beneficiaries to strengthen their trades, become economically independent, and serve as job creators within their communities.
The event ended on a high note, with beneficiaries expressing gratitude to the Ogun State Government and DAYF leadership for the opportunity, while reaffirming their commitment to using the grants responsibly to achieve long-term business growth.
