The Ondo Emerging Leaders Conference recently concluded with a resounding impact, gathering over 1,000 youths across all 18 local government areas to Akure’s Dome International Culture and Event Centre.
The conference, under the theme “Empowering Future Leaders Towards a Greater Ondo,” was a powerful call to action for youth leadership, emphasizing integrity, innovation, and economic development.
Addressing the youth, High Chief Bamidele Omosehin, Founder and President of the Bamidele Omosehin Leadership Development Initiative (BOLDI), stressed the importance of maintaining integrity and rejecting corruption, especially with the upcoming gubernatorial elections.
“If they offer you money, collect it, but vote only for the best candidates,” he urged, placing responsibility in the hands of the young attendees.
Olufowobi Olarewaju Desmond, Executive Secretary of BOLDI, shared the mission behind the initiative, designed to channel the state’s abundant resources into empowering its youth.
“The responsibility of every generation is to be the bridge of hope for the coming generation,” he said.
Desmond highlighted BOLDI’s youth-focused projects, including a newly launched empowerment foundation aiming to support 1,000 youths across sectors like technology, arts, agriculture, and the digital economy.
The conference’s keynote speaker, Barrister Banjo Ayenakin, identified patriotism and a united vision as essential for addressing Nigeria’s and Ondo’s economic hurdles.
“Leaders must be deliberate in converting resources into opportunities,” he stated, stressing the potential within Ondo’s untapped waters for driving growth in the blue economy.
The event’s spirit of mentorship continued with Hon. Agbi Stephen Omobamidele, Special Adviser to Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, who pledged to mentor Ondo’s youth, inspiring them to embrace hard work and excellence in achieving their goals.
The conference featured dignitaries including Pastor Segun Ayerin, Commissioner for Commerce and Industry, Oba Festus Olumoyegun, and Hon. Ameachi Babatunde Kolawole, all emphasizing youth empowerment as the cornerstone of Ondo’s future.
“This conference is an essential step in preparing our youth for future leadership roles,” Pastor Segun Ayerin concluded, applauding BOLDI’s vision.
By mobilizing young leaders with integrity and resilience, the Ondo Emerging Leaders Conference has set a powerful precedent for driving positive change in the state’s development trajectory.
