The Lagos State Government has officially commenced the Ibile Youth Academy Boot Camp, a leadership training programme for young people, at the Digital Bridge Institute in Oshodi.
Eko Hot News reports that the one-week residential programme features 50 participants who emerged as winners from divisional trainings across Ikorodu, Badagry, Ikeja, Lagos and Epe. Their names were earlier announced by Deputy Governor, Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, during a leadership summit at Adeyemi-Bero Auditorium.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, the Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Mobolaji Abubakre Ogunlende, urged participants to remain committed to national development. He stressed that sustainable progress requires homegrown solutions driven by young Nigerians.
Ogunlende encouraged the youths to resist the “japa” trend and focus on contributing positively to the country. He noted that with over 60 percent of Nigeria’s population comprising young people, the potential for transformation remains strong.
He advised participants to see Nigeria as their fatherland and embrace unity and collaboration. According to him, meaningful change can be achieved through persistence and collective effort.
In her remarks, the Permanent Secretary, Toyin Oke-Osanyintolu, commended the participants for reaching the boot camp stage. She urged them to deepen their knowledge and maximise the opportunity for growth.
Oke-Osanyintolu highlighted that youth empowerment remains a core priority of Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu’s administration. She said the state continues to invest in programmes that prepare young people for leadership and civic responsibility.
The boot camp will feature interactive sessions, peer learning and healthy competitions. Participants are expected to share experiences and develop skills that enhance their leadership capacity.
At the end of the programme, the overall best participant will be named State Youth Ambassador. Five others will emerge as Divisional Ambassadors representing the five divisions of Lagos State.
Officials described the academy as a platform for nurturing future leaders and strengthening civic engagement. The initiative reflects the state’s commitment to empowering youths as drivers of sustainable development.
