The Director of Operations of the Imole Youth Mobilisation Committee, Mr. Christopher Adetayo has dismissed claims that youth mobilisation efforts in Osun State are solely aimed at securing electoral victories, insisting that the initiative is focused on encouraging young people to actively participate in governance and development.
Adetayo made this known while speaking on the Osun NUJ Guest Platform, a programme organised by the Osun State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ).
Responding to a question from one of the panellists, Mrs. Olushola Egbodofo, on how he reacts to criticisms that youth mobilisation is only relevant during election periods, Adetayo said youths must understand the importance of their involvement in government beyond elections
According to him, young people are critical stakeholders whose ideas, innovation, and contributions are essential to governance and societal development.
“The mobilisation we are seeing is not basically for elections. Youths need to understand that their involvement in government is very important. They must contribute their ideas and knowledge so that when opportunities come, they will be prepared to take them,” he said.
He further explained that the movement is also driven by support for the administration of Nurudeen Ademola Adeleke, whom he praised for what he described as impactful governance across Osun State.
Adetayo noted that the governor has consistently provided opportunities for young people to occupy leadership positions and play active roles in government. He added that youths have been integrated into key areas of the administration, giving them a voice in decision-making processes.
Addressing speculations about his own political ambitions, the Imole Youth Mobilisation Committee director clarified that he is not currently pursuing any elective office. He stated that his focus, alongside that of his team, is to work towards ensuring Governor Adeleke’s victory in the August 15 governorship election.
“What we are doing is for the love of Osun State and to ensure that the governor continues the good work he has started,” he said.
Adetayo also commended the governor’s youth empowerment initiatives, stressing that the administration has made significant efforts to support young people across the state. He added that the government is working tirelessly to mitigate the economic challenges affecting Nigerians and ensure that residents of Osun State are not left behind.
Adetayo also highlighted the impact of the Imole Youth Corps Programme, describing it as one of the major initiatives of Governor Adeleke’s administration aimed at promoting youth participation in governance and public service.
According to him, the programme has significantly encouraged young people to become more actively involved in government activities while providing opportunities for personal and professional development. He further disclosed that plans are underway to expand the programme in order to accommodate more youths and deepen their engagement in the state’s development agenda.
He maintained that youths remain actively involved in the governor’s cabinet and expressed confidence that Governor Adeleke would secure victory in the forthcoming governorship election.
The Osun NUJ Guest Platform provides an avenue for public office holders, political stakeholders, and community leaders to engage with journalists and the public on issues affecting the state.
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