The International Conference Center, University of Ibadan, was filled to capacity yesterday as thousands of youths from across Oyo State gathered for the grand finale of the 2025 Oyo Youth Summit, themed “Unlocking Youth Potential: Addressing Needs, Fulfilling Dreams.”
The two-day summit, organized by the Oyo State Ministry of Youth and Sports, ended in a vibrant dinner and award presentation night, celebrating outstanding individuals across various fields and reaffirming the government’s commitment to youth advancement.
In his keynote address, Governor ‘Seyi Makinde declared that his administration would continue to provide platforms that empower young people, noting that education, entrepreneurship, and productivity are the cornerstones of national development.
“You are not a generation seeking handouts. You are the key to unlocking Nigeria’s economic prosperity,” Governor Makinde said. “At 29, I was already paying salaries. If we get our structure and leadership right, there’s no limit to what our youth can achieve.”
The Honourable Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Hon. Wasilat Adegoke, praised the governor for prioritizing youth initiatives through job creation, skill development programs, and mentorship schemes. She urged participants to seize opportunities, build strong networks, and be agents of change in their communities.
The summit featured high-level panel discussions moderated by Bukunmi Adeaga-Ilori (Kie Kie) and Mariam Oni, with speakers including Adekunbi Omotosho, Adejoke Lasisi, Oluwaseyi Gbadebo, Hon. Victor Olojede, Dr. Hafiz Ayetoro, and Mr. Iskil Mustapha Arojinle, among others.
Governor Makinde was honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award in Governance, while other awardees included Chief of Staff Otunba Segun Ogunwuyi, SSA on Special Duties Miss Lolade Ajibola, BOVAS Oil MD Dr. Victoria Samson, and popular media personality Bukunmi Adeaga-Ilori.
The summit began on April 29 with a statewide sensitization walk against drug abuse across the five zones of the state, drawing massive youth participation and setting the tone for a transformative experience.
