The Yewa Youth Leadership Conference concluded yesterday with a dynamic display of passion and intellect, leaving all attendees deeply inspired and revitalized. Over the course of three days, this event, hosted at the ASUP Hall in Federal Polytechnic Ilaro, successfully brought together young leaders, activists, and change-makers from diverse backgrounds across the Yewa communities. Their purpose was to engage in crucial discussions on leadership, civic responsibility, and citizen participation. Organized by the Yewa Youth Association, this conference left a profound impact, igniting motivation and inspiration among its participants.
In his opening address, Com. Abduljabar Ayelaagbe, the President of the Yewa Youth Association, warmly welcomed all attendees, encouraging them to connect, collaborate, and forge lasting relationships. He also shed light on the association’s accomplishments since its inception on August 7, 2022.
The conference officially commenced with the declaration by His Excellency, Prince Dapo Abiodun, the Governor of Ogun State, represented by Mr. Olaolu Olabimtan, Special Adviser to the Governor on Budget and Planning and Commissioner Designate. The Governor urged participants to strike a balance between education (career) and entrepreneurship, sharing his own experiences and emphasizing the importance of maintaining equilibrium in life.
The conference’s vision was eloquently reinforced through two captivating keynote addresses, setting the stage for profound discussions and constructive exchanges. Dr. Funmilayo Oyefusi, Managing Partner at FTI Consulting, delivered a thought-provoking paper on “Building Youth Capacity for Effective Participation in Local Governance and Community Development.” She encouraged attendees to perceive challenges as opportunities for growth and stressed the significance of innovation and collaboration in shaping a brighter future. Dr. Oyefusi passionately advocated for youth-led initiatives, skills development, mentorship, and intergenerational dialogue, emphasizing the mutual learning potential between generations.
In an engaging keynote address on border security, Dr. Olawunmi Adekunle advocated for border dialogues as a solution to security concerns in Yewaland’s border towns. He explained that these concerns stemmed from historical factors and shifting demographics, highlighting the power of border dialogues in bridging gaps, resolving conflicts, and nurturing lasting peace.
The conference featured three compelling panel sessions, each dedicated to crucial aspects of leadership, business, and border security.
Panel Session on Leadership: Opportunities and Prospects for Community Development Through Active Citizenship
This session addressed the importance of Yewa youths’ involvement in community development. Panelists included Prof. S.O.A Fakorede from the University of Lagos, Barr. Jibola Orisadare, Managing Partner at Pleasant Advocates and Solicitors, and Dr. (Mrs.) Bunmi Olakanmi Banjo from the Department of Mass Communication at Federal Polytechnic Ilaro.
Panel Session on Business: Building Resilient Businesses: Strategies for Overcoming Challenges
This panel aimed to ignite entrepreneurial zeal among participants. Mrs. Funmilayo Adetayo, CEO of Funmcy Catering Service, shared her personal journey, highlighting the challenges and rewards of entrepreneurship. Dr. Tunde Allinson, participating virtually, presented strategies for building business resilience and overcoming challenges. Mr. Agboyinnu, Deputy Director at the Ministry of Commerce, Industry, Trade, and Investment, Ogun State, clarified the various opportunities available for small and medium enterprises and encouraged participants to pursue them.
Panel Session on Security: Border Dialogue for Peace and Youth Empowerment in Yewaland
This panel was a pivotal moment for Yewa youths to discuss and address the challenges facing their region due to its unique geographical location. Panelists included ACC Ibrahim Babangida Badaru, Assistant Comptroller at the Nigeria Customs Service, CSP Olayinka Kuye, Divisional Officer at the Nigeria Police Force, Ilaro Command, Nafiu Abimbola, and Com. Mawutin Imoleayo Deji. The discussion covered pressing issues such as the use of firearms by Customs officers, the seizure of goods beyond immediate border towns, and the conduct of Customs officers.
The Paramount Ruler, Oba Kehinde Gbadewole Olugbenle, commended this panel session as one of the most insightful he had ever witnessed. He shared his personal experiences related to border concerns and expressed his optimism for a future enriched by the remarkable potential of Yewaland’s young leaders.
Remarks by Professor Rahmon Bello, Chairman, Yewa People’s Development Council – YPDC
Professor Rahmon Bello, represented by Mr. Bamidele Obafemi Akinola, Secretary-General of Yewa People’s Development Council (YPDC), acknowledged the economic challenges and infrastructural deficiencies faced by Yewaland. He highlighted the region’s innovative means of survival and advocated for education and skills acquisition as the way forward. The YPDC expressed its commitment to these goals.
Attendance
The conference boasted an impressive attendance list, including royal figures from various Yewaland communities, government officials, and prominent figures. The nearly thousand participants hailed from diverse Yewa communities, serving as a testament to the potential and power of the next generation. Their energy, passion, and dedication were inspiring. As we reflect on the exchange of ideas, collaborations, and initiatives sparked during these transformative days, it is evident that our collective future is in capable hands. The discussions and connections forged at this conference will undoubtedly lead to lasting positive change across Yewaland communities. Let us carry this momentum forward, facing future challenges and opportunities with the same vigor and determination that characterized this conference. Together, we are poised to create a brighter and more inclusive future for Yewaland.
