19th September, 2023
Mr. Mobolaji Ogunlende, the newly sworn-in Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, has stated that stakeholders in youth development play an important role in increasing people’s trust in government.
Mr. Mobolaji stated this at the Stakeholders’ Meeting with the rank and file in the Ministry at Alausa, Ikeja, that the Ministry’s inclusive mandate in a strategic position is to increase people’s trust in this administration.
According to him, if Lagosians are to believe in Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu’s administration, everyone charged with implementing youth-oriented policies and initiatives must be committed to their duties.
“Many Lagosians, particularly the youth, are looking up to our Ministry for social support structures. Our initiatives and programmes have a direct impact on the operation of institutions across the state. We cannot afford to be complacent or rest on our oars”, he stated.
He pointed out that Mr. Governor has directed all Ministries, Agencies and Department to hit the ground running and execute programmes that will improve the lives of the people.
“Mr Governor has just four years to deliver on his electoral promises. As a result, we must maximise the time at our disposal to restore the people’s confidence in government. This can only happen if everyone of us contributes their quota by discharging their duties effectively and efficiently,” the Honourable Commissioner added.
Speaking further, Mr. Ogunlende encouraged members of staff to see their role as social workers whose humanitarian services can only be well rewarded by God, adding that they should see themselves as being fortunate to be among the few chosen from the millions of Lagosians to serve the masses.
While urging them to maintain cordial relationships and operate an open door policy, he confirmed that the Ministry must work seamlessly to achieve its mandate.
“Let’s be driven by passion, respect one another, and have an open mind that will help them to be objective in their analysis of issues and passing of judgement in their day-to-day activities.
On her part, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Pharm. (Mrs) Toyin Oke-Osanyintolu, said the Ministry has more responsibility now that the T.H.E.M.E.S. Plus Agenda has broadened the mandate of the Ministry.
“This implies that we are going to have more programmes to engage the youths in the state. This engagement will cover both those in formal and informal settings moving forward”, she opined.
The Permanent Secretary further emphasised that the citizens, including the elderly, children, youth, and the physically challenged, are relying on the Ministry to roll out social support programmes that enhance their well-being.