The Ondo State Government is set to host a transformative three-day Youth Empowerment Retreat, designed to equip young people across the state with the necessary skills for self-reliance, employment, and entrepreneurship. The event will take place from October 2nd to 4th, 2024, at Nibanola Resort, Ondo town.
This initiative, which comes shortly after the state government empowered 20 young entrepreneurs with N3 million each, underscores its commitment to fostering youth development across political and social lines. The retreat aims to provide a platform for participants to gain practical knowledge and contribute to shaping policies that will further enhance opportunities for the state’s youth.
During a press briefing at the Governor’s Office in Akure, Commissioner for Youths and Sports Development, Mr. Saka Yusuf-Ogunleye, outlined the objectives of the retreat. He noted that the event is part of a broader strategy to empower young people, equipping them with tools for self-reliance while also creating an inclusive environment for dialogue on youth-related issues.
“This retreat is aimed at empowering and reorienting our youths, regardless of political affiliations. It’s a key part of our strategy to promote youth development and create sustainable opportunities,” Yusuf-Ogunleye said.
He added that the retreat, organized as a public-private partnership, will feature various activities, including exhibitions of creative arts, vocational training, agricultural innovation sessions, and talk shows. These sessions are aimed at developing participants’ talents while also providing practical skills for personal and professional growth.
In addition, the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Youth Empowerment, Orioye Gbayisemore, revealed that the event will be graced by top entrepreneurs and prominent personalities from Ondo State. These mentors will engage with the participants, sharing their experiences and offering guidance on how to achieve success in various sectors.
Gbayisemore also announced that Minister of State for Youth Development, Mr. Ayodele Olawande, will be among the special guests at the retreat. He further disclosed that Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa will personally receive a comprehensive policy document on youth development, which will be drafted during the event.
As part of the retreat’s closing activities, Governor Aiyedatiwa will reward the top 20 best participants with five hundred thousand naira each, in recognition of their innovation and leadership during the program.
This retreat is expected to serve as a pivotal experience for the youth of Ondo State, aligning with the government’s ongoing efforts to prioritize youth empowerment and create sustainable opportunities for the next generation.