In a vibrant celebration of youth empowerment and leadership, Oloye Adegboyega Taofeek Adegoke, the Aare Egbe Omo Balogun of Ibadanland and President of the Jericho Businessmen Club (JBC), on Tuesday chaired the first anniversary of the Oyo State Youth Development Agency under the leadership of Adebowale Falana Prince.
He commended Governor Seyi Makinde for his unwavering commitment to youth inclusion in governance and administration.
Addressing dignitaries and guests at the event, Oloye Adegoke, who is also the Chairman of Solutions 93.9 FM, described the occasion as a testament to the progressive and forward-thinking leadership in Oyo State, particularly under the stewardship of dynamic and youthful leaders.
“We are lucky in Oyo,” he said.
“We have a youthful governor, a youthful speaker, and even the chairman of the youth agency is a young man.
Youth are in charge, and we are seeing the results.”
Oloye Adegoke acknowledged the Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Honourable Debo Ogundoyin, and federal lawmaker Honourable Abass Adigun Agboworin, applauding their energetic contributions to youth-focused governance.
He also praised Dr Akin Fagbemi who is also Mogaji Agunleyinju compound and the Executive Chairman of the Oyo State Hospital Management Board, describing him as “very energetic” and “a right peg in the right hole.”
“There are people who occupy positions and redefine them,” Adegoke said.
“It’s not about the title; it’s about the energy and commitment you bring.
That’s what we’re seeing with this current leadership.”
Speaking of Nigeria’s youthful population, Adegoke emphasized the importance of channeling youthful energy towards national development.
“Nigeria is lucky. We have the numbers, the youth population.
But we must channel that energy rightly: through vocational training, empowerment, and education, not Yahoo Yahoo or thuggery,” he emphasized. “The work the youth agency is doing is crucial.
Don’t just give money, teach them how to fish.”
In a moment of light-heartedness, Oloye Adegoke acknowledged several political allies in attendance and urged them to remain steadfast in their commitment to youth development.
“I’m pro-youth, and I will always continue to support young people and the good work this agency is doing.”
A key highlight of the event was the unveiling of a compendium showcasing the agency’s achievements over the past year.
As Chairman of the Day, Oloye Adegoke led the symbolic launch of a ₦10 million initiative.
He concluded with words of encouragement to the Chairman of the Oyo State Youth Development Agency, Prince Adebowale Falana: “You’re doing well. You’ve proven why leadership matters. Keep it up, and may God continue to strengthen you.”
The anniversary celebration drew participation from youth groups, state officials, and community stakeholders, marking a year of impactful initiatives in skills acquisition, entrepreneurship development, and youth engagement across Oyo State.
