By Ayodele Oni
Ondo state Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa has highlighted oil theft, insecurity, youth restiveness, and economic deprivation as part of problems that have hindered past developmental effort in the coastal area of the state.
The Governor was addressing delegates at the 15th anniversary of the Niger Delta National Youth and Development Stakeholders Forum, in Akure.
The four-day event themed “Collaborating with Youth and Development Stakeholders in the Niger Delta for Peace, Security, and Development,” brought together federal and state government officials, policy makers, and youth leaders from the nine Niger Delta states.
Speaking on behalf of Governor Aiyedatiwa, Secretary of Ondo oil intervention agency, Abike Bayo-Ilawole emphasized the summit’s goal: to unlock the region’s potential, foster peace and security, and drive sustainable development.
He urged youths to reject violence and instead engage constructively with the government, presenting collaborative ideas to enhance the region’s progress.
“Restoring peace and security will create an environment where the government can effectively address youth concerns.
“This requires firm but objective enforcement, followed by sincere dialogue with community representatives.”
Aiyedatiwa outlined OSOPADEC’s commitment to youth empowerment through agribusiness and aquaculture, promoting self-reliance and wealth creation.
He listed skill acquisition programmes in fish farming, crop cultivation, and animal husbandry, alongside ongoing infrastructure projects such as road construction, potable water supply, electricity, shoreline protection, and land reclamation as some of the interventions in the region
“Additionally, the commission has secured grants and loans for youth entrepreneurs through the Nigerian Association of Small and Medium Enterprises (NASME) and the Bank of Industry (BOI) as part of broader financial strategies.”
He urged youths to take an active role in maintaining security, emphasizing that peace in the region requires collective effort.
The Niger Delta National Youth Development Stakeholders Forum serves as a platform for dialogue among youth leaders, government officials, civil society, and private sector actors to evaluate past and present initiatives and develop proactive strategies for sustainable partnership and development in the region.
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