Lack of a Youth Development Law
In Ogun State, youth make up more than 60% of the population, yet there is no legal framework that guarantees consistent investment in their development. Unlike states such as Lagos and Ekiti, Ogun has no Youth Development Commission Law, leaving youth issues dependent on changing political priorities.
Should youth welfare depend on political goodwill, or should it be protected by law?
Absence of a State Youth Policy
Policies guide action, but Ogun State still operates without a comprehensive Youth Policy. This means there’s no structured roadmap for addressing unemployment, education gaps, digital skills, mental health, or civic participation among young people.
If the state had a Youth Policy, wouldn’t it be easier to measure progress and hold leaders accountable?
Unemployment & Skills Gap
According to the National Bureau of Statistics (2023), youth unemployment in Ogun stands at 37%, with thousands of graduates leaving universities each year without jobs. Many lack the 21st-century skills demanded by industries, leading to frustration and migration.
How can Ogun truly become an industrial hub if its youth are not equipped to drive innovation?
Limited Youth Participation in Governance
Despite being the majority, young people remain underrepresented in decision-making. Many feel their voices don’t count, and civic participation is weak. Without structured platforms, youth concerns rarely make it into official state planning documents.
Shouldn’t young people who are the largest demographic, have a seat at the decision-making table?
