Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, has challenged young people to equip themselves with relevant skills, embrace technology, and become solution providers and entrepreneurs capable of driving sustainable development.
The governor gave the charge at the 7th OJN Annual Symposium organised by the Oladele John Nihi Foundation in Lokoja.
Governor Ododo described the founder and Special Adviser on Youth and Students Matters, Oladele Nihi as a young individual that has consistently mentored young people, nurtured leadership potential and promoted active citizenship among youths across Kogi State and beyond.
He urged young people not to allow their present circumstances to limit their aspirations, stressing that resilience, innovation and continuous self-development remain critical to achieving success in today’s competitive world.
The governor noted that governance thrives on teamwork, adding that the OJN foundation has played a significant role in coordinating and mobilising young people across the state through initiatives that encourage their participation in governance and development.
He said his administration’s investments in free education at the primary and secondary school levels, payments of bursary, scholarships and other educational interventions are deliberate efforts to prepare Kogi youths for greater opportunities and meaningful contributions to society.
Governor Ododo commended the youths of the state for their continued support for his administration and urged them to remain worthy ambassadors of Kogi State wherever they find themselves.
He also applauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for implementing policies under the Renewed Hope Agenda that are creating greater opportunities for young Nigerians to participate in governance and national development.
Earlier, the Convener of the symposium and Special Adviser to the Governor on Youth and Student Matters, Hon. Oladele Nihi, said the 7th edition of the annual symposium, themed “Youth as Stakeholders in Governance and Democratic Development,” was designed to deepen youth participation in leadership and democratic processes.
Nihi expressed appreciation to Governor Ododo for his unwavering support for young people, describing the governor’s presence at the event as the greatest gift he could receive.
He said the confidence reposed in him by Governor Ododo to serve in his administration has provided him with the opportunity to engage and positively impact thousands of young people across Kogi State and Nigeria, while pledging his continued loyalty and commitment to the success of the administration.
Reflecting on the journey of the OJN Foundation over the past seven years, Nihi said the organisation has evolved into a platform where young people are inspired to aspire, innovate and contribute meaningfully to society through mentorship, leadership development and community engagement.
He encouraged young people to remain focused on their dreams, overcome challenges with determination and continue striving for excellence regardless of their background or circumstances.
Delivering the keynote lecture, the Provost of Kogi State College of Education, Ankpa, Dr. Paul Fashagba highlighted the importance of active youth participation in governance as a catalyst for democratic consolidation and economic development.
Dr. Fashagba described Oladele Nihi as an outstanding youth leader who has distinguished himself through selfless service and youth advocacy within Kogi State and across the country.
He commended Governor Ododo for prioritising youth inclusion in governance and urged young people to take advantage of available opportunities to participate actively in decision-making processes capable of shaping the future of the state and the nation.
In a related development, Governor Ododo used the occasion to announce the elevation of the Olu of Apata, His Royal Highness, Oba Frederick Balogun to the status of a First Class Traditional Ruler in recognition of his contributions to peace, community development and the preservation of the state’s cultural heritage.
The symposium attracted government officials, traditional rulers, youth leaders, students, civil society organisations and other stakeholders committed to advancing youth development and democratic governance in Kogi State.
