The Lagos State Government has officially commenced the Ibile Youth Academy Boot Camp, an intensive leadership training initiative designed to empower the next generation of leaders within the state.
The week-long residential program was inaugurated on Monday at the Digital Bridge Institute in Oshodi, bringing together top-performing youth from across the state’s five administrative divisions.
Cultivating Homegrown Leadership
Addressing the participants at the opening ceremony, the Honourable Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Mr. Mobolaji Abubakre Ogunlende, emphasized the importance of national identity and discouraged the growing trend of youth emigration, often referred to as the Japa syndrome.
Ogunlende underscored that the responsibility of nation-building lies solely with its citizens, noting that the youth represent over 60% of Nigeria’s population.
“We cannot afford to lose ourselves in the search for the Nigeria of our dreams. No nation is built by foreigners. We cannot actualize the lofty dream of our founding fathers if we don’t do away with the japa syndrome,” Ogunlende stated. “We need to come together and proffer homegrown solutions to the problems we are facing as a nation.”
Selection and Training Structure
The boot camp features 50 elite participants who emerged as winners from rigorous divisional training held in Ikorodu, Badagry, Ikeja, Lagos, and Epe. These finalists were previously announced by the Deputy Governor, Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, during a recent leadership summit.
The Permanent Secretary, Pharm (Mrs.) Toyin Oke-Osanyintolu, also addressed the cohort, urging them to act as worthy ambassadors of Lagos State.
She noted that the administration of Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu has prioritized youth empowerment as a core developmental pillar to address modern demographic realities.
The Road to Ambassadorship
Throughout the week, participants will engage in knowledge deepening, collaborative learning, and healthy competition. The program will culminate in the selection of the State Youth Ambassador, the highest honor for the overall best participant. Additionally, five high-performing individuals will be appointed as Divisional Ambassadors to represent their respective regions, ensuring that the academy’s impact resonates throughout all corners of Lagos State.
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