SDGs: AROYEWUN HARPS ON SUPPORT FOR YOUTH-LED SOLUTIONS. ...As Commissioner for Youth & Social Development, Ogunlende, Council Chairmen, Others commend initiative.

The Executive Chairman, Igbogbo/Bayeku LCDA, Omo'ba Hammed Olalekan Aroyewun, has stressed the need for support for youth-led solutions as a strategy to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), noting that such support would also promote youth development and empowerment for peace and economic growth. The event was held in observance of the International Youth Day (IYD) 2025, on Saturday, August 15, at the Council Secretariat, Igbogbo.

According to the Chairman while addressing the large audience, "It gives me great joy to welcome you all to the Mentorship Session with HOA, organised in commemoration of the 2025 International Youth Day.

"This year’s theme, “Local Youth Actions for the SDGs and Beyond,” speaks directly to the passion, creativity, and resilience that define our young people. The 2025 International Youth Day reminds us that youth are not just leaders of tomorrow, they are leaders of today, catalysts of change, and partners in progress. Today's session offers us the opportunity to reflect on how our local actions can contribute meaningfully to sustainable development and the future we all desire.

"As an administration guided by and committed to the GLORY Agenda, we believe that empowering our youth is not an option. It is a necessity. The pursuit of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) requires innovation, responsibility, and courage at the local level. It demands young leaders who are ready to shape their communities and transform their world.

"When youths are equipped with knowledge, mentorship, and opportunity, they rise above every limitation. They find solutions in education, in technology, in environmental sustainability, and in governance. They become the builders of a future that is inclusive, prosperous, and peaceful.

"This mentorship session is therefore more than an event. It is a call to action. It is a reminder that real progress depends not only on policies and plans, but on the personal commitment of individuals—especially young people—who dare to make a difference.

"As we engage with our distinguished leaders, speakers and panelists today, let us draw strength and direction. Let us leave this hall with renewed conviction to act, to innovate, and to serve. Together, we can move beyond the SDGs and create a lasting legacy of growth, peace, and shared prosperity for Igbogbo/Baiyeku LCDA, for Lagos State, and for Nigeria and beyond."

In his eloquent remarks, the Honourable Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Hon. Mobolaji Ogunlende applauded the initiative, noting that the young people are bold innovators, resilient and essential partners in achieving the SDGs.

The Commissioner said that youth-led solutions must be supported for peace and sustainability, stating that the Lagos State Government had recognised the impact of the younger generation on economic growth and development.

“We have come to the recognition that when young people lead, the society thrives,” he said. Adding that the youth must be celebrated and supported to achieve the aims of the SGDs.

“We have the responsibility to promote it, to amplify the message of the IYD. I charge the youths not to be involved in things that would affect our State’s peace and unity. We will not have SDGs without young people driving it. Youths must get involved in local actions and support peace processes anywhere they find themselves,” Ogunlende opined.

Earlier, during a panel session, which was moderated by the SSA to Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu on Social Development, Hon. Olalekan Biliamin Alejo, OBA, the five Panelists, Dr. Adeleke Dankuwo, Barrister Leke Aroyewun, Ms Comfort Olafare, Mr Owolabi Jamiu and Mr Ashade AbdulSalam, were all agreed that mentoring and leadership empowerment remained the most powerful tools to positively impact the next generation of leaders. They commended Omo'ba Hammed Olalekan Aroyewun for the Mentorship aimed at creating the next generation of leaders.

In the same vein, the Executive Chairmen of Onigbongbo LCDA, Hon. Moyosore Adebanjo, Ikorodu North LCDA, Hon. Ameen Apanishile, Ikoyi/ Obalende LCDA, were all charged the youth to be part of the SDGs achievement by contributing their quotas for economic growth and development, adding that the youth must revolve in mindset, skills and character to remain relevant.

Other notable dignitaries in attendance include Prince Adedayo Ladega, the Executive Chairman Ikorodu Local Government, Alhaji Taiwo Odumbo, Executive Secretary, Local Government Education Authority, LGEA, Hon. Basirat Adetutu Banjoko, Leader of the Legislative Arm, Hon. Saidat Adeoba, Councillor of Ward C3, Hon. Habib Anifowose, Councillor of Ward C5, Hon. Wasiu Olowu, Chief of Staff, Igbogbo/ Bayeku LCDA, different youth groups, amongst others.

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