Aiyedatiwa Inaugurates Ondo Youth Parliament, Reaffirms Focus on Youth Inclusion

Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, on Monday inaugurated the third session of the Ondo State Youth Parliament, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to youth empowerment and inclusive governance.

The inauguration, held at the State House of Assembly Complex in Akure, was presided over by the Deputy Governor, Dr. Olayide Adelami, who represented the governor at the event.

Addressing the gathering, Adelami said the youth parliament was revived as part of the administration’s broader strategy to raise responsible, politically-aware citizens capable of taking up future leadership roles.

“This platform serves not only as a training ground but also as a channel to deepen democratic values among the youth,” the deputy governor said. “Our administration is intentional about building young leaders who will drive positive change in the state and the nation.”

He added that the parliament will help young people understand the workings of democratic governance while equipping them with critical decision-making skills.

Also speaking at the event, the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Youth Empowerment and Job Creation, Mr. Orioye Gbayisemore, described the parliament as a practical leadership school for aspiring public servants. He commended Governor Aiyedatiwa for sustaining policies that ensure no youth is left behind.

In his inaugural address, the newly elected Speaker of the Youth Parliament, Ayo Shadrach, lauded the state government’s commitment to youth development and promised that members of the parliament would uphold their mandate with diligence.

The event drew attendance from notable government officials including the Speaker of the Ondo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Olamide Oladiji, SSA to the Governor on ICT, Hon. Tomide Akinribido, and the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Youth and Sports, Mrs. Tolu Adeyemi.

The Youth Parliament is expected to serve as a platform for young people to participate actively in governance and contribute to policy discussions affecting their generation.