Prince Farooq Adenugba Inspires Youths to Step Into Leadership Roles

....Advocates Mentorship and Inclusion

It was an afternoon of inspiration and engagement in Ago Iwoye on Saturday when the Special Adviser to the Ogun State Governor on Housing, OPIC and Special Projects, Prince (Arc) Farooq Adenugba, met with a delegation of students from Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU). The session, led by the Students’ Union Government (SUG) President, Muizz Olanrewaju Olatunji, (Chairman Mao), focused on youth leadership, mentorship, and empowerment.

Speaking passionately to the students, Prince Adenugba urged Nigerian youths to take bold steps into leadership positions, describing them as the driving force of the nation’s future.

“Our youths are not just the leaders of tomorrow they are the leaders of today,” he said. “You possess the creativity, energy, and innovation that our country desperately needs to achieve sustainable growth, social harmony, and political stability.”

The Special Adviser emphasised that nation-building requires collective effort, and young people must be at the centre of it. He noted that the administration of Governor Dapo Abiodun places a strong premium on youth development and inclusion in governance, pledging to open more channels for OOU students to access mentorship and opportunities across the state.

“We are intentional about creating avenues for mentorship,” he added. “There are countless opportunities within Ogun State economy, and it’s time our students start exploring them with guidance from those who have gone ahead.”

In his response, SUG President Olatunji expressed appreciation for the audience and lauded Prince Adenugba’s humility and accessibility. He said the students were ready to play active roles in supporting state initiatives, particularly through community-driven projects that foster better relationships between OOU and its host communities.

“We’re inspired by your leadership style and openness,” Olatunji said. “The students of OOU are willing and prepared to partner with the state in ways that strengthen our community ties and contribute to the larger development vision.”

During the interaction, the discussion turned toward the need for structured mentorship programmes that would connect students with experienced professionals in public service and other strategic sectors. The idea, both sides agreed, would help young people gain valuable insights, career guidance, and exposure to practical leadership dynamics.

The meeting ended on a note of optimism, as the student delegation praised Prince Adenugba for what they described as a “game-changing engagement” that underscored his commitment to student welfare and development.

“This kind of initiative shows that the government truly cares about us,” one student said. “It’s refreshing to see leaders who not only talk about youth empowerment but are willing to make it happen.”

For the young participants, the encounter was more than just a courtesy visit it was a call to action. And for Prince Adenugba, it reaffirmed his belief that empowering the next generation remains the surest path to building a more prosperous Ogun State and a stronger Nigeria.