Lagos Sets Historic Pace as Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, meets 36 NYCN Chairmen for the First Time in Nigeria

 

By Kayode Olopade 

Lagos State has once again taken the lead in youth engagement and inclusive governance as 36 Chairmen of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) gathered for a three-day strategic retreat—marking the first time in Nigeria’s history that a Commissioner for Youth has met collectively with all 36 NYCN Chairmen in a single engagement.

The retreat was designed to provide a unified platform for youth leaders to deliberate on pressing developmental issues, share innovative ideas, and create actionable strategies that will shape policies and programmes affecting young people in Lagos.

As part of the activities marking the opening of the retreat, the Lagos State Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Hon. Mobolaji Ogunlende, hosted the Chairmen to an informal dinner on Monday evening. The event provided a relaxed atmosphere for the leaders to connect beyond official engagements and solidify the relationships necessary for progress-driven collaboration.

Speaking during the gathering, Ogunlende commended the unity and dedication displayed by the 36 Chairmen, describing their convergence as a “powerful moment for youth leadership in Lagos State.” He emphasized that the Sanwo-Olu administration remains unwavering in its commitment to youth development, empowerment, and ensuring that young people are active contributors to governance and decision-making processes.

According to the Commissioner, the retreat aligns with the administration’s broader objective of building a youth ecosystem that is vibrant, innovative, and solution-oriented. He expressed optimism that the discussions and outcomes of the retreat would stimulate impactful initiatives that will be felt across all communities in Nigeria.

“This gathering is more than a meeting—it is a statement of our shared resolve to shape a better future for our young people,” Ogunlende said. “The ideas and resolutions that will emerge from these sessions will inspire action, drive innovation, and strengthen the structures supporting youth development in our state.”

He further noted that partnerships between government institutions and youth leadership bodies such as the NYCN remain critical to achieving sustainable development goals within the state’s youth sector.

Notably, the evening concluded with an appreciation message from the Chairman of Chairmen, Engr. Olalekan Adigun (Chairman, NYCN-Lagos). His remarks left the NYCN Chairmen reinvigorated and focused, with many expressing gratitude for the state government’s continued support and recognition.

As the retreat continues, stakeholders anticipate robust outcomes that will translate into programmes addressing issues such as capacity building, employment opportunities, civic engagement, community development, and social inclusion.

In the words of the Commissioner:            "Together, we build the future. Together, we raise a generation of champions.”