Igboora, Oyo State – Students and youth across Ibarapa have been urged to become active participants in shaping the future of their communities by supporting visionary leadership, promoting unity and taking greater responsibility for the development of the region.
This call was made by Olatunde Obagade during a student engagement programme held at the Oyo State College of Agriculture and Technology (OYSCATECH), Igboora. The event was organized by the Ibarapa Student Association and brought together students, youth leaders and other stakeholders to discuss leadership, education and community development.
Speaking on the challenges facing Ibarapa, Obagade highlighted the consequences of poor representation, limited opportunities and slow development, stressing that meaningful progress can only be achieved when citizens actively participate in governance and support leaders who are genuinely committed to the welfare of the people.
"I am proud to identify with leaders who have consistently demonstrated concern for the people and the future of our constituency," he said.
He commended Senator Sharafadeen Abiodun Alli, Hon. Sarafadeen Olaoniye, and Hon. Tajudeen Amoo for their continued commitment to youth-focused initiatives and educational development, describing their support as evidence that politics can be a powerful tool for empowerment, progress and sustainable community development.
Reflecting on efforts to secure support for the student association, Obagade explained that the objective extended beyond funding an event.
"It was about building a bridge between leadership and the younger generation. It was about showing that the voices of Ibarapa students matter, that our youth deserve to be heard and that our future deserves investment," he stated.
Addressing the students, he encouraged them to embrace unity, civic responsibility and political awareness, urging them to support leaders who prioritize education, youth empowerment and inclusive development.
"Our strength lies in our unity, our numbers and our courage. We must deliberately shape our future by supporting leadership that listens to the people, values education and is committed to the growth of our communities," he said.
He further challenged young people to move beyond political apathy and become advocates for good governance.
"This is the time for us to become more politically conscious, more socially responsible and more committed to the development of our community. We must use our voices, our energy and our platforms to promote progress and good governance."
Obagade concluded by expressing confidence in the potential of Ibarapa, noting that the region is home to talented students, hardworking young people and abundant resources capable of driving lasting transformation if properly harnessed through responsible leadership and active citizen participation.
The event reaffirmed the importance of collaboration between public leaders, educational institutions and young people in building a more prosperous future for Ibarapa and strengthening youth participation in governance and community development.
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