The Office of the Senior Special Assistant (SSA) on Youth Empowerment wishes to address the recent misinformation surrounding the purported invitation to the Ilaje Youth General Meeting, as well as the claims of a conspiracy regarding the establishment of a new Ilaje Youth body.
We categorically state that no official invitation has been issued by our office for any youth group or individual to attend the Ilaje Youth General Meeting. The claims suggesting that the government is endorsing or organizing the event are false. The Ondo State Government and the Office of the SSA on Youth Empowerment have not been involved in planning or hosting this meeting.
Furthermore, we want to address the misinterpretation of the proposed meeting’s purpose. There is absolutely no effort to undermine or de-recognize any established youth organization, including the Federation of Ugbo Youths and Mahin Aheri Etikan Youths. The government is committed to ensuring all youth groups are recognized and treated fairly under its policies.
It is important to highlight that the Ondo State Government has recently approved a comprehensive Youth Policy that will cater to the interests of all youth organizations, ensuring inclusivity and unity among various groups across the state. The policy seeks to empower all youth bodies, including Ilaje Youths, Ugbo Youths, Mahin Aheri Etikan Youths, and others, creating a more cohesive and collaborative environment for youth development.
Signed:
Amb. Orioye Benedict Gbayisemore
Senior Special Assistant (SSA)
Youth Empowerment, Ondo State.
