A sum of five million naira has been disbursed as subvention, by the Ogun State Government, to various Youth Organisations in the State.

 Commissioner for Sports Development, Hon. Wasiu Isiaka, while presenting the dummy cheques to the Organisations, at the 2024 Annual Congress and Payment of Subvention to the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN, Ogun State chapter), at the Simeon Adebo Library, Kuto, Abeokuta, noted that the future of the State and the Country as a whole, relies on youth's dedication and contributions to the society.

 Hon. Isiaka, represented by the Director, Youth Development, Mr. Tokunbo Salami, revealed that Nigerian youths are critical stakeholders in national development, playing an integral role in shaping the future of the nation.

 While reiterating government's desire to empower and equip the teeming youthful population in the state with the necessary tools for progress and advancement, Hon. Isiaka tasked them to leverage on technological innovations, constructive and meaningful engagements for nation building, rather than resorting to violence.

The Chairman, NYCN, Ogun State chapter, Oloye Akolawole Shoremi, appreciated the Governor for the approval and subsequent release of funds for the youth Organisations, saying, the funds would go a long way in empowering them to drive more youth-focused initiatives.

He hinted that the funds would help to cater for skills development workshop and entrepreneurship training, leadership programmes, community outreach projects and many more.

"We planned a Youth Business Development workshop this year, but due to paucity of funds, we were not able to achieve it. This subvention would foster support for the NYCN and its activities, while also contributing to the development of young people in the State.

"We will ensure that we engage the youth at all levels, consistently, in programmes and activities that will ensure they contribute to the developmental agenda of the Prince Dapo Abiodun-led administration", he said.

In his goodwill message, the first State Chairman of the NYCN, Pa. Simeon Oyewole Ogundipe commended the State government for approving and disbursing this year's subvention, charging the youths not to rest on their oars, but strive for excellence, as they were the backbone of the nation's economy.

While appealing to the government not to be lopsided in its appointments, Pa Ogundipe revealed that empowerment and training of the youth on skills as well as developmental programmes would go a long way in reducing social vices and unemployment.