Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, has renewed his administration’s commitment to youth development, emphasizing that young people remain a pivotal part of his government’s plans for sustainable growth and prosperity.
Speaking at a youth engagement forum held in Ado-Ekiti, the state capital, Governor Oyebanji assured that his administration would continue to prioritize policies and programs aimed at empowering young people across the state. He stated that the future of Ekiti lies in the hands of its youth, and that nurturing their potential is key to building a more prosperous society.
“We recognize the energy, creativity, and dynamism that young people bring to the table,” Oyebanji said. “Our focus remains on creating opportunities, investing in education, promoting entrepreneurship, and supporting youth-led initiatives that will transform Ekiti State into a hub of innovation and economic vitality.”
The governor outlined several initiatives already implemented under his administration, including skill acquisition programs, startup funding opportunities, digital literacy training, and support for young farmers. He explained that these programs were designed not just to alleviate unemployment but to position young people as drivers of economic and social change.
Oyebanji reiterated that his administration’s six-pillar development agenda places significant emphasis on human capital development, with youth empowerment featuring prominently. According to him, the various investments in education, vocational training, sports, and technology are deliberate efforts to equip young people with the tools needed to succeed in today’s competitive world.
Highlighting some achievements, Oyebanji mentioned the recent launch of the Ekiti Youth Innovation Challenge, an initiative aimed at discovering and nurturing young innovators and entrepreneurs. Through the program, promising young talents receive mentorship, grants, and access to business development support, helping them turn their ideas into viable enterprises.
“Beyond infrastructure and governance reforms, our youths must be at the center of development conversations,” Oyebanji asserted. “We are committed to giving our young people a voice, to include them in decision-making processes, and to equip them with everything they need to succeed.”
The governor also touched on the importance of collaboration, stating that the government is working with various private sector organizations, development partners, and NGOs to broaden the scope and reach of its youth programs. He emphasized that sustainable youth development requires a multi-stakeholder approach and that the state government remains open to partnerships that align with its vision.
In addition, Oyebanji revealed that plans are underway to establish a Youth Resource Center in each of the three senatorial districts of the state. These centers will serve as hubs for training, mentorship, and access to information and resources on business development, agriculture, digital skills, and civic engagement.
“We want our youths to be job creators, not job seekers,” the governor said. “Through these centers, they will have the support and facilities needed to refine their ideas and grow their businesses.”
The event was well-attended by hundreds of young people, representatives of youth organizations, civil society groups, and government officials. Many participants praised the governor for his proactive approach to youth development, noting that several government initiatives had already begun to make positive impacts on their lives.
Speaking on behalf of the youth, the Chairman of the Ekiti Youth Council, Femi Adebayo, expressed appreciation to Governor Oyebanji for his unwavering support and visionary leadership. He urged the governor to continue to deepen youth participation in governance and ensure that youth-focused policies are consistently implemented.
“We are proud to have a governor who believes in young people and is willing to invest in our future,” Adebayo said. “We assure His Excellency that Ekiti youths will not disappoint. We are ready to contribute our quota to the development of our dear state.”
In his closing remarks, Governor Oyebanji challenged young people to remain focused, disciplined, and committed to excellence. He stressed that while the government would continue to provide the necessary support, youths must also take personal responsibility for their growth and development.
“The future belongs to those who prepare for it,” Oyebanji said. “My administration is creating the platform, but it is your responsibility to seize the opportunities and make a difference. Together, we can build a better, stronger Ekiti State.”
The governor’s renewed pledge has been welcomed as a beacon of hope for young people in Ekiti, many of whom see it as a call to action to take ownership of their future and contribute meaningfully to the state’s advancement.
