The National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), South West Zone, has commended the Executive Governor of Ogun State, His Excellency Prince Dapo Abiodun, CON, for what it described as outstanding commitment to infrastructural development and youth inclusion in governance, following the commissioning of a major road project in Imeko/Afon axis of the state.
The commendation was delivered at the official commissioning of the road, which according to the NYCN, had suffered over 63 years of neglect before the present administration intervened. The project, stakeholders noted, has brought renewed hope, economic relief, improved connectivity, and enhanced security to the affected communities.
Speaking at the ceremony, the National Vice President of NYCN, South West Zone, Comrade Kehinde Damilola Olorunjubelo, described the road project as a landmark achievement and a clear demonstration of purposeful leadership.
“This road is not just an infrastructure project; it represents renewed government presence, economic relief, improved connectivity, and enhanced security for the people. We deeply appreciate His Excellency for prioritising projects that directly impact the lives and livelihoods of citizens,” Olorunjubelo said.
He further praised Governor Abiodun for his unwavering support for youth development and inclusion, describing the Ogun State administration as one of the most youth-friendly governments in Nigeria. According to him, the governor’s consistent appointment of young people into strategic positions reflects genuine trust in the capacity of youths to contribute meaningfully to governance.
Highlighting a major milestone for Ogun State, Comrade Olorunjubelo announced that the state has reclaimed a leadership position in national youth affairs with the emergence of a new National Vice President, South West, of the NYCN. He explained that this development automatically makes Ogun State the South West Zonal Headquarters of the NYCN, a privilege returning to the state after about 48 years.
He also disclosed that shortly after assuming office, he recommended an Ogun State indigene, Comrade Bello Oluwaseun, who is based in South Africa, for a Youth Ambassador role. The recommendation, he noted, has culminated in Bello’s official appointment as the Representative of Nigerian Youth in South Africa.
“This appointment is a testament to the competence, credibility, and global relevance of Nigerian youths when given the opportunity to serve,” he stated.
The NYCN South West Vice President further commended Governor Abiodun for appointing a commissioner from the host Local Government Area, describing the move as one that has strengthened grassroots confidence and reinforced inclusive governance.
Reaffirming the Council’s support for the Ogun State Government, Olorunjubelo noted that the NYCN has continued to complement government efforts through impactful youth-focused programmes. These include sustained campaigns against drug abuse and social vices, as well as a recently concluded four-week skill acquisition programme for 200 youths, which featured immediate empowerment through the distribution of laptops, sewing machines, industrial mixers, and cash grants.
While applauding the governor’s unprecedented appointment of young people as Senior Special Assistants (SSAs) and Special Assistants (SAs), the NYCN appealed for increased youth appointments, particularly in the host Imeko/Afon Local Government Area. According to the Council, the area is endowed with loyal, competent, and service-driven young people who are eager and ready to contribute to governance and development.
The road commissioning ceremony attracted a wide array of political and traditional leaders from across Ogun State and the South West region. Dignitaries present included the Deputy Governor of Ogun State, Her Excellency Engr. Noimot Oyedele Salako; the Honourable Member representing Yewa North/Imeko-Afon Federal Constituency, Hon. Prince Gboyega Nosir Isiaka; the Speaker of the Ogun State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Elemide; the Secretary to the State Government, Mr. Tokunbo Talabi; the Commissioner, Federal Character Commission, Ogun State, Hon. Oladele; the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Dr. Toyin Taiwo Emmanuel; and former Senator Iyabo Anisulowo.
Also in attendance were commissioners, members of the Ogun State House of Assembly, and chairmen of Yewa North and Imeko/Afon Local Government Areas.
On the traditional front, the event was hosted by the Obaladi of Afon Land, His Royal Majesty Oba Adewaare AbdulRasheed Babade, alongside other revered monarchs, including the Paramount Ruler of Yewa Land and Olu of Ilaro, HRM Oba Kehinde Gbadewole Olugbenle; the Onimeko of Imeko Land, Oba Olanite Benjamin; the Oloola of Ilara; the Onidofa of Idofa; and several other royal fathers.
The ceremony marked another significant moment in Ogun State’s ongoing infrastructural renewal drive and reinforced calls for deeper youth participation in governance at all levels.
