By Habeeb Ibrahim
Photos by Muminat Ajide
At the Imota Ayayo Lecture Day, held at Sh-Sholaja Multipurpose Hall in Imota, Lagos, participants explored “The Struggle for Youth Participation in Politics and Community Development: Lessons from Nigeria’s Democratic Process.”
Bringing together students, educators, and community leaders, the event highlighted the importance of youth involvement in governance and local development, encouraging young people to take an active role in shaping a stronger, more inclusive future.
The event, anchored by Professor Olumide Metilelu, the pioneer Deputy Vice Chancellor of Lagos State University of Science and Technology (LASUSTECH), gathered over 200 students, as noted by Professor Siyan Oyeweso, who commended the organizers for the turnout and for engaging youth in community discussions.
In his lecture, Professor Oyeweso highlighted the importance of youth involvement in Imota’s growth, covering topics on the town’s economy and the role of its residents, especially young people, in advancing local development.
He suggested future programs extend invitations to youth representatives, community clubs, market women, and other stakeholders to broaden community engagement.
“Don’t limit it to young children next time you want to organize such a program; endeavor to invite youth representatives, representatives of clubs and societies, and market women,” he said.
Biliamin Olalekan Oba, the Governor’s Senior Special Assistant on Social Development, advised students to seek guidance from community elders, teachers, and counselors when facing challenges in academics or other endeavors.
“Consult the elders whenever you are facing any challenges in your endeavors and academics. Go to your councillors, teachers; don’t be silent and learn to speak up,” he said.
In the panel session, he urged students to excel in their fields and contribute their skills to the community, aligning with the National Youth Council’s slogan, “Build the Youth; Build the Nation.”
He reiterated that meaningful national development requires investment in the youth. “Any country that’s interested in building a sustainable future must invest greatly in the youth,” he concluded.
Proprietor, HOMAT Group of Schools, Alhaji Amusa Olawale, gave a goodwill message emphasizing the crucial role of youth in shaping the community’s future. He encouraged attendees to consider ways they could give back to the community, stressing the importance of prioritizing community impact over personal gain.
“As leaders of tomorrow, think about what you can give back to the community that nurtured you. Don’t focus solely on personal gains; consider how your actions can benefit others,” he emphasized. “We appreciate your potential and urge you to strive for excellence. You are the hope for a better tomorrow. Let’s work together to move our community forward.”
Queen S.D. Olayemi, present at the event, expressed appreciation for the insights gained, particularly on education and community building. She emphasized that a structured education pathway provides individuals with the foundation to contribute effectively to society.
Alhaji Fatai Ọlálékan Lasisi noted the challenges facing youth in politics and community development, citing poverty, unemployment, limited education, and restricted political participation as key barriers.
However, he expressed optimism in the potential of young people, asserting that education and involvement in politics can empower youth to bring positive change and improve accountability in governance.
Engineer Adegbola, also in attendance, encouraged Imota residents to take ownership of the town’s development. He proposed forming an “Imota Resource Development Group” to gather community leaders, including the 25-30 professors from Imota, and assist them in establishing initiatives within the town. He emphasized the importance of focusing on studies and recommended incorporating Yoruba language studies to strengthen cultural identity.
In a follow-up interview, Biliamin Olalekan Oba commended the program’s organizers for fostering youth involvement in community engagement, noting the need for early exposure to community service. “You can’t be a part of the future that you are not familiar with,” he said.
He stressed the collective responsibility in community development and recommended that future events include more youth participants from Imota, both local and abroad, to strengthen connections within the community.
“The next edition should have more youthful participation. We want to see more young people from this community, home and abroad, coming back home to participate,” he added.
The event underscored the role of media in fostering community development by raising public awareness, mobilizing support, and promoting inclusive discussions on developmental issues.
