The Deputy Governor of Oyo State, Barrister Bayo Lawal, has announced a significant youth empowerment initiative aimed at reducing unemployment in the state. Speaking at the presentation of start-up capital to over 500 youths at the Oluyole Local Government headquarters in Idi-Ayunre, Lawal highlighted the initiative as a “game-changer” for the local government.
Lawal praised the efforts of Engr. Akeem Olatunji, describing his initiative as complementary to the state government’s ongoing efforts to empower its people and drive economic growth. “Olatunji has set an example for how a local government can create impactful change at the grassroots. This is the kind of initiative Oyo State needs to tackle unemployment and build a sustainable economy,” he said.
Chairman of the Nigeria Conference of Speakers of State Legislators, Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin, commended Olatunji for providing vocational training and essential tools to help graduates start their own businesses. He urged other local governments to emulate Olatunji’s approach to governance, emphasizing the importance of a strong local government system in spreading the dividends of democracy.
The Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Otunba Ademola Ojo, expressed satisfaction with the development within Oluyole, attributing the success to the leadership of Governor Seyi Makinde. Ojo highlighted the governor’s focus on infrastructure development, social welfare, and other key sectors as pivotal to the state’s progress.
Executive Chairman of the Oyo State Universal Basic Education Board (OYSUBEB), Dr. Nureni Adeniran, also praised Olatunji for his outstanding performance and the positive relationship between Oluyole Local Government and SUBEB, which has led to improvements in the local education system.
In his address, Engr. Akeem Olatunji expressed gratitude for the state government’s support and reiterated his commitment to empowering the grassroots for sustainable economic growth. He assured that more similar activities are planned for the coming year, emphasizing the importance of hard work, determination, and the willingness to learn for the graduates.
Former executive chairman of Oluyole LG, Hon. Abass Aleshinloye, praised Olatunji for revitalizing the local government and encouraged him to continue engaging with the community. The event was attended by members of the Oyo State House of Assembly, local government officials, and community leaders, all of whom lauded the initiative as a model of effective governance at the grassroots level.
