Oriokuta Youth Progressive Association Inaugurates New Executives, Donates Palliative Packages to Community | ClipTV Online

“The youth,” Jose Rizal said, “is the hope of the future”.  While the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) motto reads “Build the Youth, Build the Nation! It is apparent that youth organizations are important in nation building. In a remarkable event highlighting the power of youth in community development, the Oriokuta Youth Progressive Association inaugurated its newly elected executive members on Tuesday. The event, held in Imota LCDA, featured not only the formal swearing-in ceremony but also a community palliative package distribution and the donation of 10 solar-powered streetlights to address security concerns in dark spots around Oriokuta.

The inauguration drew notable stakeholders from across Imota LCDA, including traditional rulers, political leaders, and youth advocates, who pledged their continued support for the association’s initiatives.

Outgoing President Ogunbodede Oluwaseun Mayowa Reflects on Achievements

Ogunbodede Oluwaseun Mayowa, the outgoing president, highlighted his administration’s achievements, particularly in organizing annual youth sporting events aimed at engaging, unifying, and empowering the youth. He noted that these activities have attracted investors to Imota, contributing to the area’s commercialization and development.

Mayowa proudly shared that one of Oriokuta’s football clubs won the first-ever football competition in Ikorodu Division, a testament to the community’s talent and potential. He commended his executive team for their dedication, noting that their efforts had resulted in gainful employment opportunities for many Oriokuta youths in both public and private sectors.

“As I hand over the leadership baton, I therefore charge all youths to actively participate in community development through meaningful acts or by joining youth associations,” Mayowa stated. He expressed confidence that the newly inaugurated executives would continue to build on his administration’s successes.

Stakeholders Applaud Youth Initiatives

Additionally, Prince Babatunde Oredoyin, the Council Leader of Imota LCDA, told ClipTV Online that the Oriokuta Youth Progressive Association for their creativity and resilience in nation-building efforts. He acknowledged the youth association’s significant role in driving community development in Imota and pledged continued support from the council.

“Your efforts have not gone unnoticed. The current administration will keep supporting the youth to prepare them for future challenges,” Oredoyin further stated.

Similarly, Comrade Folarin Adegboyega Awal, former NYCN Coordinator for Imota LCDA, praised the youth for taking ownership of their community’s development. He stressed the importance of establishing innovative and creative ideas that can attract sponsorship and partnerships.

“No stranger will develop your community for you. It is your responsibility to set SMART goals and implement projects that will improve the lives of the residents,” Awal said, encouraging the youths to initiate skill acquisition programs and entrepreneurship training.

Oriokuta Youth President Elect Agenda

The newly elected president, Comrade Olatunji Idris, expressed gratitude to the association for trusting him with the leadership position. Furthermore, he thanked the electoral committee for conducting a transparent election process and acknowledged that his election was a recognition of his capacity and dedication.

In an interview, Idris unveiled several ambitious projects aimed at improving the well-being of the Oriokuta community:

1. Light-Up-Oriokuta Initiative
   Idris announced the “Light-Up-Oriokuta” agenda, which aims to install solar-powered streetlights throughout the community. He emphasized the importance of eliminating dark spots to improve security and create a more welcoming environment for residents and visitors.
2. Back-To-School Initiative
   As Nelson Mandela once said, “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world”. Recognizing the value of education, Idris further announced the Back-To-School Initiative to reduce the number of out-of-school children in Oriokuta. The program will cover school uniforms and tuition fees to ease the financial burden on parents and ensure that every child has access to quality education. Our goal is to minimize and, if possible, eradicate the out-of-school rate in Oriokuta,” Idris said.
3. Youth Sporting Development
   Idris also promised to improve sporting activities in the community by acquiring more sporting kits and equipment. He stressed the importance of keeping youths engaged in meaningful activities to deter them from negative influences.
4. Youth Empowerment and Skill Acquisition
   Idris noted that the new administration would identify and implement programs that would prepare the youth for future challenges, including skill acquisition and entrepreneurship opportunities.

“This is an opportunity to serve and develop our community,” Idris said. “We are committed to ensuring Oriokuta progresses through innovative and impactful initiatives.”

Royal Fathers and Key Stakeholders Grace the Occasion

The inauguration ceremony was well-attended by several high-profile stakeholders, including:

• Prince Babatunde Oredoyin, Council Leader, Imota LCDA
• High Chiefs (Baale) from various communities in Oriokuta
• Imota LCDA Chief of Staff
• Community Leaders
• Youth Leaders
• Political Stakeholders

The event concluded with prayers for peace, unity, and progress in Oriokuta. It also calls for collective efforts toward building a resilient and prosperous community.

With the new leadership in place, Oriokuta Youth Progressive Association is set to achieve even greater milestones, fostering development and creating opportunities for youths to thrive in all aspects of life.