The Fifth Assembly of the Lagos State Youth Parliament has successfully hosted the maiden edition of the Eko Youth Parliamentary Summit, calling on government authorities to pay closer attention to issues affecting young people across the state.
Eko Hot News reports that the event took place at the Lateef Jakande Auditorium, House of Assembly Complex, Alausa, Ikeja, and brought together lawmakers, youth leaders, and government officials. Delivering the keynote address, Mukhail Adetokunbo Abiru urged young people to take advantage of platforms that allow them to contribute meaningfully to governance. The summit highlighted the importance of youth engagement in legislative processes and governance.
Senator Abiru emphasized that youths must not remain passive observers in political processes. According to him, understanding the principles, procedures, and practice of legislation is crucial for preparing young leaders for future responsibilities. He noted that the Lagos State Government recognizes youths not only as future leaders but as active participants in present governance structures.
He encouraged the young parliamentarians to move beyond social media activism and focus on disciplined engagement, policy research, and solution-driven discussions. The senator stressed that legislative exposure at an early stage equips youths with the necessary skills to influence policies that shape their generation’s future.
In her goodwill message, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Youth and Social Development, Pharm. (Mrs.) Toyin Oke-Osanyintolu, described the Eko Youth Parliamentary Summit as a strategic initiative designed to nurture leadership potential. She explained that the programme aims to prepare young people for constructive engagement in governance and legislative affairs.
Other dignitaries, including the Deputy Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Mojisola Lasbat Meranda; Deputy Majority Leader, Hon. Adedamola Richard Kasunmu; Lagos APC Youth Leader, Dr. Seriki Murtala; and Mayoress of Ikosi LCDA, Hon. Abolanle Samiat Bada, commended the Ministry for organizing the summit. They encouraged participants to maximize the opportunity to become well-grounded in legislative activities.
In her welcome address, Speaker of the Lagos State Youth Parliament, Rt. Hon. Maria Itunuoluwa Soniregun, expressed appreciation to the state government for supporting the initiative. She assured stakeholders that the Youth Parliament would utilize the platform to propose and pass bills aimed at addressing pressing youth-related challenges in Lagos.
The Eko Youth Parliamentary Summit marks a significant milestone in strengthening youth participation in governance and legislative development in Lagos State.
