Youth Advised to Unite for Sustainable Development - Ven. Babajide O.A

 By Miracle Okoro, Abeokuta

Youth leaders across Yewaland have been advised to take greater responsibility in driving sustainable community development, as stakeholders stress that the region's progress largely depends on the active involvement of young people.

The call was made at a seminar titled _"Building Responsible Youth Leaders for Sustainable Community Development in Yewaland,"_ held last Saturday, 24th January 2026, at Oronna Hall, Ilaro. The event brought together members of the Yewa Youth Council and youth leaders from various communities.

Presenting the paper, Ven. Babajide O. A. Olatubosun, Vicar of Our Saviours Anglican Church, Temidire, Ilaro, described youths as key stakeholders in present-day development, not just future leaders. He noted that unemployment, limited leadership training, and weak institutional support continue to hinder youth potential.

Ven. Olatubosun explained that sustainable development involves long-term social, economic, and environmental growth, adding that responsible youth leadership is vital to achieving these goals. He encouraged youths to mobilize their peers, promote inclusive participation, and embrace ethical leadership, while calling for stronger support through training, mentorship, economic empowerment, and youth-friendly policies.

Oloye Adedeji Ogunleye, AKA Okado, urged the youth to unite for the betterment of Yewa Land. Adedeji said, "We need to be united if we want progress for Yewa Land." He highlighted the challenges facing some areas in Yewa Land, including lack of schools, inadequate teachers, and poor infrastructure.

He appealed to the youth to come together to develop their area, saying, "Let us come together and build our area." He expressed his commitment to investing in Yewa Land, stating, "That is why I have come back to Ilaro to do my business here, and sooner I will bring my children home. I want people to know them."

Comrade Isikalu Olanrewaju Alamu, President of Yewa Youth Association, emphasized the importance of responsible leadership, stating, "Today is a moment of destiny, a garden of minds, vision, dreams, and responsibilities." He urged participants to translate the lessons and insights gained from the retreat into impactful service, ethical leadership, and sustainable community development in Yewaland.

Comrade Isikalu expressed gratitude to His Royal Majesty, Oba Kehinde Gbadewole Olugbenle, and other stakeholders for their support. Special appreciation was extended to Venerable Babajide Olatunbosun, Chief Adedeji Ogunleye, and other youth leaders for their contributions.