The Lagos State Ministry of Youth and Social Development (MYSD) has reaffirmed its commitment to strategic collaboration with various sectors of the society to create a conducive environment for youth to maximise their potential.
Honourable Commissioner for MYSD, Mr. Mobolaji Abubakre Ogunlende stated this in his welcome address at a three-day retreat organised for the Ministry’s Technical Working Group (TWG), held recently at the Providence Hotel, Ikeja.
He said, “With over 70% of Lagos residents under the age of 35, the youth not only represent a significant demographic but also a crucial force for the future of our state. However, the promise of this dynamic group is often hindered by systemic barriers that prevent many from reaching their full potential. It is our collective responsibility to collaborate across sectors to dismantle these barriers and create an environment where every young person in Lagos can thrive, contribute, and lead meaningful lives.”
He further emphasized that the retreat marks a decisive shift from planning to action. The goal is to collaboratively chart a strategic path in alignment with the Lagos State Youth Policy, fostering innovation and dedication to address the pressing challenges faced by youth while laying a foundation for their sustainable development.
In her remarks, the Permanent Secretary, Pharm. (Mrs.) Toyin Oke-Osanyintolu, highlighted that the establishment of the Technical Working Group (TWG) is a significant step toward addressing systemic barriers preventing young people from realizing their full potential. She added that the TWG is tasked with creating a roadmap to transform the lives of youth, ensuring their active participation in the growth and prosperity of Lagos State.
“This retreat is a pivotal moment for us to secure the commitment of TWG members, formalize a strategic framework, and define actionable steps for the next three years. By aligning our efforts with the Lagos State Youth Policy and fostering multisectoral collaboration, we can ensure that our initiatives are impactful, inclusive, and sustainable,” she stated.
Over the course of the three-day retreat, TWG members, drawn from the Ministry, civil society organizations (CSOs), NGOs, and private sector stakeholders, will deliberate on key issues, including: sustainable economic engagement of youth, promoting healthy lifestyles, ensuring inclusivity and equitable opportunities for all youth, creating a supportive environment for youth development, building partnerships and effective collaboration, and addressing climate change and environmental sustainability.