Group urges Ogun gov to create youth ministry

The Ogun State chapter of the National Youth Council of Nigeria has called on Governor Dapo Abiodun to establish a Ministry for Youth Development and appoint a commissioner to oversee youth-related matters in the state.

The group made the appeal in a letter dated June 27, 2025, and signed by its State Chairman, Akolawole Shoremi, and the Secretary, Dotun Opaleye.

It expressed concern over the continued absence of a functional ministry solely focused on youth affairs.

The youth leaders warned that the continued absence of such a ministry could lead to social disengagement, increased youth vulnerability to vices, economic stagnation, and erosion of trust between young people and the government.

The non-existence of a Ministry for Youth Development, since its pronouncement, sends an unintended but nonetheless disheartening message that the concerns, aspirations, and potential of the young people of Ogun State are probably not prioritised with the same focused attention as other crucial sectors.

“This perceived attitude has burdened the youth constituency with a sense of disappointment and marginalization, hindering our ability to fully contribute to the progress and prosperity of the Gateway State,” the group added.

It urged the governor, who also serves as the Chairman of the Southern Governors’ Forum, to use the opportunity to show leadership and commitment to youth inclusion.