Oyo Youth Agency Chairman Highlights Government Empowerment Efforts for youths

The Chairman of the Oyo State Agency for Youth Development, Prince Adebowale Adebayo Falana, has highlighted several empowerment initiatives introduced by the state government to improve the welfare and productivity of young people across the state.

Falana spoke on Wednesday during a radio programme on Oluyole FM 98.5, where he appeared as a guest on a discussion titled “What Kind of Empowerment Do Youth Expect from Government Elected Officials.” The programme was hosted by broadcaster Biodun Adejumo.

During the discussion, Falana explained that youths generally expect government to create an enabling environment that supports employment, skills development, security, and sustainable economic opportunities.

He noted that the agency recognizes youths within the age range of 18 to 35 years, although cultural perceptions in some parts of Oyo State sometimes extend the classification to older individuals.

According to him, the agency has placed strong emphasis on digital and vocational empowerment programmes aimed at enhancing youth productivity. He revealed that more than 5,000 young people have already been registered for digital skills training programmes across the state.

Falana added that vocational grants and security support initiatives have also been introduced to strengthen youth-led enterprises and improve the economic stability of young people.

He further disclosed that the agency currently coordinates over 500 grassroots youth groups, providing them with platforms for engagement, empowerment initiatives, and community development activities.

The chairman also stated that the administration of Governor Seyi Makinde has created employment opportunities for young people across several ministries, departments, and agencies in the state.

Highlighting additional programmes, Falana said the agency supports youths through agribusiness initiatives and soft loan schemes, including Point of Sale (POS) business support designed to help young entrepreneurs build sustainable sources of income.

He also mentioned the entertainment sector as another area where government and youths collaborate, citing the recent concert by Nigerian music star Davido in Ibadan, which he said contributed to boosting the local economy.

Addressing issues of inclusivity, Falana explained that youth development programmes have been extended to rural communities through clusters of youth development officers stationed across various zones and local government areas.

He added that the state government has designed targeted programmes for youths in villages, towns, and cities, particularly through vocational partnerships that enable rural residents to acquire practical skills for sustainable livelihoods.

During the call-in segment of the programme, a caller from Igboora commended the agency’s efforts but called for increased inclusion of persons living with disabilities.

In response, Falana referenced initiatives by Governor Makinde, including the establishment of the Oyo State Agency for Persons with Disabilities and the appointment of a Special Adviser on disability matters.

Other callers also raised concerns about the need for increased recruitment of health workers and the establishment of more government-owned industries to create employment opportunities.

Falana urged youths across the state to remain law-abiding, pursue education and vocational training, and contribute positively to the development of the state.

He also encouraged young people to participate responsibly in the democratic process, emphasizing the importance of continuity in governance for sustained development in Oyo State.

Members of the chairman’s entourage included Mr. Sangogade Olusumbo, Coordinating Director of the agency; Mr. Osungbaro Oluwaseye, Director of Administration and Supplies; Akintayo Abioye Epo, Personal Assistant to the Chairman; Mr. Rasheed Olawale Socrates of the Media Unit; and Mr. Jesugbemi of the Agency for Youth Development.