The Oyo State Government has reiterated its unwavering commitment to the growth, empowerment, and welfare of youths across the state.
This assurance was given by the Honourable Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Hon. Wasilat Adegoke, while receiving delegates from the Nigeria Correctional Service, Agodi Custodial Centre, on Tuesday in her office.
She reaffirmed the commitment of Governor Seyi Makinde’s administration to creating opportunities and enabling environments that support the aspirations of young people across Oyo State.
Hon. Adegoke explained the importance of youth engagement in productive and lawful ventures, noting that numerous gainful opportunities exist for young people to explore rather than engaging in activities that may lead to incarceration.
She encouraged youths in the state to take full advantage of the various programmes, initiatives, and infrastructure put in place by the administration of His Excellency, Governor Seyi Makinde, for their benefit and development.
The Commissioner further highlighted that the present administration has continued to appoint and employ qualified youths across different sectors, while consistently investing in programmes that improve their lives.
According to her, Governor Makinde remains committed to youth advancement in key areas such as sports, education, agriculture, artisanship, culture, and tourism, among others.
Also speaking, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Dr. Sunday Moradeyo, noted that the state government has successfully transformed the Lekan Salami Sports Complex into a modern world-class facility and has employed competent coaches to nurture young talents in various sporting and athletic disciplines.
He further disclosed that the Oyo State Government is collaborating with the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) to train and retrain youths in modern agricultural practices, thereby equipping them with practical skills for self-reliance and economic growth.
Earlier, the leader of the delegation, Assistant Superintendent of Corrections (ACC) Sunday Adekunbi, commended the Oyo State Government for its numerous developmental strides and dedication to making the state a better place for all residents.
He stated that the Nigeria Correctional Service has remained committed to rehabilitating and educating young inmates to foster positive reorientation and reintegration into society.
ACC Adekunbi also sought stronger collaboration with the Oyo State Government in reducing the number of youth inmates who are indigenes of the state through preventive empowerment programmes and sustainable youth engagement initiatives.