The forthcoming Oyo Youth Summit 2025 is not just another event on the calendar—it is a living testament to the commitment of Governor Seyi Makinde’s administration to youth empowerment, engagement, and development in Oyo State.
Scheduled for April 29th and 30th, 2025, the summit themed “Unlocking Youth Potential; Addressing Needs, Fulfilling Dreams” is designed to provide a transformative platform for young people aged 18 to 45, giving them the tools, exposure, and voice to shape their future and that of the state.
Since assuming office, Governor Makinde has remained unwavering in his resolve to place youth at the heart of his developmental agenda. From inclusive governance to strategic appointments and policy frameworks, the Makinde-led administration has opened doors for young people in politics, entrepreneurship, innovation, sports, and public service. The Oyo Youth Summit is the latest in a long line of initiatives aimed at equipping the next generation of leaders with the resources and networks needed to thrive.
A Collective Effort by Youth Leaders
The successful execution of this landmark summit is being spearheaded by the Oyo State Ministry of Youth and Sports, under the able leadership of Honourable Commissioner Adegoke Wasilat, whose drive and passion have positioned her as one of the most dynamic youth voices in government today. In unity of purpose, key stakeholders such as the Chairman of the Oyo State Agency for Youth Development, Prince Falana Adebowale Adebayo, the Oyo State PDP Youth Leader and Acting Publicity Secretary, Hon. Michael Ogunsina, Senior Special Adviser To the Governor On Student Matters, Hon. Victor Olojede and the Special Adviser to the Governor on Political Matters, Hon. Deji Ola, are working hand-in-hand to ensure the summit leaves an indelible mark.
This united front of youth leadership is a reflection of Governor Makinde’s inclusive governance model, where young people are not just beneficiaries, but active participants and decision-makers in the implementation of youth-related policies and programs.
A Summit Designed for Impact
The two-day event begins with an awareness walk and sensitization campaign on drug abuse, targeting strategic zones across the state—underscoring the administration’s proactive approach to youth health and well-being. This will be followed by the Summit Proper, which includes a panel session featuring industry experts, successful entrepreneurs, policy influencers, and civic leaders who will speak on relevant issues such as digital transformation, economic empowerment, leadership, and social impact.
To crown the experience, an Award Night and Special Dinner will hold on the second evening, celebrating young changemakers who have contributed immensely to the development of the state.
The summit will also feature a keynote address by Dr. (Mrs.) Victoria Onaolapo, Managing Director of BOVAS Group, a highly respected figure whose life story embodies resilience, enterprise, and success.
An Opportunity Not to Miss
For every young person in Oyo State, the Oyo Youth Summit is a golden opportunity—an avenue to learn, connect, pitch ideas, get inspired, and be part of a community committed to progress. It is a space where talent meets opportunity, where vision is matched with resources, and where the youth take center stage in conversations that will shape their future.
Governor Seyi Makinde’s youth-friendly policies have laid the foundation. Now, the summit seeks to build on it, bringing together the best of Oyo’s youth to dream, to dialogue, and to deliver.
In a state widely known as the Pacesetter, the youth are once again being called to rise—this time not as spectators, but as active drivers of sustainable development.
