The Oyo State has been described as a vibrant hub for ambitious and aspiring young individuals, offering exceptional opportunities for growth and success.
This declaration was made by the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Prince Dotun Oyelade, during his address at the 19th Synod of the Methodist Church Nigeria, Diocese of Agodi, Olodo, Ibadan.
The Commissioner described Oyo State as a platform for aspiring mobile youths, stressing that Governor Seyi Makinde’s administration has created an environment where aspiring young individuals can pursue their dreams and achieve success
“A lot of lives have been transformed through employment. Over 23,000 youths have been employed across different sectors, 5,020 trained in agribusiness with 3,000 trained directly by the state government and 2,020 through partners and 19,500 teachers recruited into public schools.”
“This administration continues the policy of Youths employment and engagement. So far, no government in the new or old Oyo has performed this feat either in times of prosperity or adversity.” He said
The Commissioner cautioned against the growing belief among some religious groups that prayer alone guarantees success, stating thatb it is a misleading doctrine that could derail the future of young people.
Quoting Proverbs 13:11 and James 2:17-18, he emphasized the importance of hard work alongside faith and warned against preachers who promote complacency under the guise of spirituality.
He further encouraged youths to embrace diligence and spiritual principle as a pathway to lasting success.
Recognizing the challenges faced by diligent youths in a challenging environment, Prince Oyelade stressed the government’s efforts to providing opportunities and a supportive system for growth.
He expressed optimism about the bright prospects for youths in Oyo State, stating, “The horizon is very bright for our youths in this place.”
While commending the Methodist Church for organizing another successful synod, the Commissioner expressed hope for a brighter future for the youths which is inline with the theme for the synod.
In his presidential address, the Bishop of Methodist Church Agodi Diocese, Rt. Rev. Oluwole Onaleke, praised Governor Seyi Makinde for his exceptional performance in employment, youth empowerment, infrastructure, health, agriculture, and other developmental projects.
He urged the government to take deliberate steps to combating moral decadence, ensuring that more youths excel both within Oyo State and globally.
“Today’s youth often display a strong drive to achieving wealth, which should not be viewed as the ultimate purpose in life. Instead, they should focus on building a meaningful and well-rounded life that goes beyond wealth.
True success lies in pursuing a life of purpose, contributing positively to society, and developing values such as integrity, compassion, and resilience” He said
Speaking on the 2025 Synod theme, “He will rise again,” inspired by John 11:23, Bishop Onaleke expressed optimism that the church, which has experienced a decline in influence and attendance due to societal, cultural, and internal challenges, will regain its prominence.
He encouraged attendees to walk forward in faith, rekindling their collective mission as the body of Christ.
