Group commends Governor Makinde administration for youth empowerment initiatives, calls for stronger federal policies on jobs, skills and human capital.
The Omituntun Benedict Forum (OBF), a sociopolitical and community development organisation in Ibadan, Oyo State, has joined young people worldwide in commemorating the 2026 International Youth Day, urging the Federal Government to increase investment in education, skills development, entrepreneurship, employment and youth leadership.
In a statement marking the occasion, OBF commended the Oyo State Government under Governor Seyi Makinde for its youth-focused initiatives and efforts to create opportunities for young people across the state.
The organisation particularly praised the Oyo State Agency for Youth Development, chaired by Prince Falana Adebayo Adebowale, for promoting youth empowerment programmes and initiatives aimed at improving the prospects of young people.
OBF said meaningful youth development requires deliberate investment in human capital and greater inclusion of young people in governance and community development, describing youths as active partners in nation-building rather than mere beneficiaries of government programmes.
However, the forum expressed concern over the economic challenges facing Nigerian youths, including rising living costs, limited employment opportunities and barriers to economic inclusion.
It therefore called on the Federal Government to implement stronger youth-centred policies, expand employment opportunities, support young entrepreneurs and increase investment in human capital development.
The organisation also urged young Nigerians to embrace education, entrepreneurship, community service and responsible citizenship while calling on governments to provide an enabling environment for them to thrive.
OBF said this year’s International Youth Day theme, “Different Contexts, Common Aspirations,” highlights the shared aspirations of young people for dignity, opportunity, inclusion and a better future despite differences in their circumstances.
The forum reaffirmed its commitment to youth empowerment, grassroots development and initiatives aimed at expanding opportunities for young people across Oyo State.