By Akinnodi Francis, Ondo

The Ile-Oluji youth, under the aegis of the Oijefon Youth Council (OYC), have advocated youth development through empowerment.

OYC President, Engr. Adedokun Adeyonu, stated this during a courtesy visit to the office of the Executive Chairman of Ile-Oluji/Okeigbo Local Government, Adeboye Adebare.

The youth council congratulated the chairman on his inauguration.

According to the president, the empowerment initiative would cover skills acquisition, agriculture, scholarships, and bursaries to support students in tertiary institutions.

“The Oijefon Youth Council is a platform coordinating all Ile-Oluji kingdom youth. Its objective is to support members in self-discovery, empowerment, self-reliance, and growth. This would promote peace, harmony, and sustainable community development.

“As young people, we recognise the vital role of government in shaping our future. We acknowledge your administration’s efforts in areas such as education, entrepreneurship, security, and infrastructure.

“However, we also understand that youth are not just beneficiaries of development but key stakeholders in driving progress,” he said.

Adeyonu added that youths were eager to participate in governance, community development, and leadership training.

“We believe that when the energy and creativity of young people are properly harnessed, the entire society benefits.”

He also called on the chairman to support the completion of the township stadium to promote sports activities among the youth.

He assured the chairman of the council’s support and pledged that youths would remain law-abiding and responsible.

“The youth pledge loyalty and cooperation in working with the administration to achieve a brighter future.”

The chairman, Adeboye Adebare, expressed gratitude to the youth body for the visit.

“This is a sign that the youths are ready to work with the government,” he said.

Since assuming office, Adebare said he had initiated projects to improve working conditions for staff.

“These projects include salary increments for ad-hoc staff, solar installations to electrify the complex, and the purchase of a utility vehicle,” he stated.

The local government boss promised to facilitate the community stadium project by presenting it to state executives.

“The essence of government is to make life easier for the people than it was before.”

He also promised to involve and engage the youth in governance, with subsequent meetings to track progress on promises made and further developments.