Ogun Governor Urges Nigeria’s Youth To Address Concerns Through Dialogue, Not Protests

Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun has urged the state's youths to use dialogue to address their concerns instead of embarking on a nationwide protest.

During a recent meeting with various youth organizations in Ogun State, the governor asked the people to opt for dialogue over protests, which were being encouraged by unidentified groups.

He emphasized the importance of addressing issues through constructive and civil engagement, and shared a series of photos from the meeting on his X handle on Wednesday.

"Our administration is dedicated to including young people in governance, having appointed many into key roles and creating opportunities through initiatives like the job portal and local content law," he wrote.

"We have also established separate ministries for sport development and youth development to better address specific needs. We are in the process of appointing a new Commissioner for Youth Development, ensuring that our youth have a strong voice in the government."

He acknowledged the concerns and criticisms of the citizens, and assured the people that the government was committed to the development agenda. The governor said they welcomed "objective criticism," noting that it helped to improve services to the state.

Abiodun further wrote that his government appreciated the support and feedback from the National Youth Council of Nigeria and other youth leaders, adding that he was confident that together, through dialogue and collaboration, all issues can be addressed.

Youth leader Motolani Oyediji, who also spoke during the meeting, asked for more young people to be included in the government.

The State Chairman of the National Youth Council Kolawole Soremi suggested appointing a Commissioner for Youth Development to manage youth issues and facilitate regular communication between the youth and the government.

President Bola Tinubu held a meeting earlier this year where he called governors of Ogun and Anambra states, urging them to "look at what we're doing right and what we're doing wrong to bring life back to the economy."

Recently, Ogun saw a massive improvement in its cholera Case Fatality Rate alongside other states in Nigeria as it dropped to 2.9% from 3.5% as efforts to combat the disease continue.