Amidst the festivity of a public holiday on Tuesday, April 8th, 2024, kakalistiq.com reports that Hon. Mobolaji Ogunlende, the Commissioner for Youths and Sports in Lagos State, stood resolute in his commitment to bolster the growth and development of youth and sports in Epe Local Government and the entire state.
Accompanied by a retinue of directors and ministry staff, the Commissioner embarked on a tour of sports facilities, underscoring the government’s dedication to the THEMES plus agenda, which prioritizes Social Inclusion, Youth Engagement, Empowerment, and Gender Equality as catalysts for youth empowerment and societal advancement.
“We are not saying we are going to revive all of the youth centres at the same time because it is almost impossible. But at least, we need to have the low-hanging fruits, the medium ones, and the high-end ones,” the Commissioner remarked, highlighting the strategic approach to rejuvenating youth centres across the state.
Addressing a gathering of youth leaders from Epe, Eredo, Ibeju-Lekki, and Ikosi-Ejinrin, Hon. Ogunlende emphasized the indispensable role of partnership and collaboration with private organizations in realizing the state’s youth development objectives. He lauded the support of a private firm in equipping sports facilities with internet infrastructure and expressed gratitude to Nigerian Dancehall star Patoranking for spearheading the renovation of a youth centre in Yaba.
“The Popo-Oba Youth Center will be delivered in two months,” the Commissioner assured, stressing the government’s commitment to quality infrastructure that stands the test of time. Despite grappling with economic challenges, he urged youth to embody the “Can-do Spirit” exemplified by President Bola Tinubu, advocating for resilience and steadfastness in the face of adversity.
Moreover, Hon. Ogunlende, who also toured the Old People Home under construction in Eredo LCDA, disclosed plans for a youth database to facilitate proper developmental planning and announced initiatives from various ministries aimed at youth empowerment, including a project with a private firm set to employ one million youths irrespective of educational background.
In response to appeals from youth leaders, including the SSA to Governor Sanwoolu on Tertiary Education, Comrade Murtala Giwa-Moore, for increased youth involvement in sports facility management, the Commissioner pledged to incorporate youth representation, ensuring inclusivity and ownership of sports infrastructure.
As the Commissioner for Youths and Sports, Hon. Mobolaji Ogunlende’s unwavering commitment underscores a new dawn for youth and sports development in Epe and Lagos, calling upon all stakeholders to embrace the Can-do spirit and work collaboratively towards a brighter future for the state’s youth.
