The Governor of Ekiti State, Biodun Oyebanji, has pledged to employ effective governance to mitigate the recurring issue of youth migration both abroad and to other economically attractive states in Nigeria.
Oyebanji emphasized the importance of cultivating a positive perception of Nigeria among the youth, warning that the ongoing brain drain, commonly referred to as ‘Jappa syndrome’, poses a significant threat to the nation’s growth if left unaddressed.
Speaking at an interactive session titled ‘Youths Let’s Talk With BAO’ held at the Adetiloye Hall, Trade Fair Complex in Ado Ekiti, the Governor highlighted his administration’s commitment to making Ekiti State an appealing place for young people to live and work.
He assured the over 1,000 youths present, who were drawn from the 16 local government areas, that all efforts will be made to create an environment conducive to economic productivity and viability.
“This is a democracy; we can’t stop anybody from traveling to wherever they like,” Oyebanji remarked.
“But we have a duty to create an enabling environment to stop the Jappa syndrome. Jappa is not just about traveling abroad; it includes migrating from Ekiti to places like Lagos.
We will work hard to make Ekiti a place where people can work, live, and invest, ensuring security and thriving businesses.”
Addressing recent violence in Ado Ekiti, the Governor urged the youth to avoid cultism, drug abuse, and senseless killings, cautioning that viewing Nigeria as a failed state could jeopardize their future. He reiterated his commitment to enhancing food security in Ekiti, promising to resolve transportation issues faced by youth farmers in the Ipao-Oke Ako-Irele axis to protect their agricultural outputs.
Governor Oyebanji also stressed the importance of unity among youth groups and assured that his government will not politicize its programs.
He emphasized inclusivity, stating that all citizens, irrespective of political affiliations, will benefit from the state’s initiatives.
The youth, represented by the Youth Parliament, expressed their confidence in Oyebanji’s leadership and endorsed him for a second term. The Speaker of the Youth Parliament, Rt. Hon. Nathaniel Olusanya, praised the Governor for his inspiring leadership and for prioritizing youth welfare. Olusanya highlighted the significant appointments of youths as Special Assistants and Senior Special Assistants as evidence of the Governor’s commitment to youth inclusion in governance.
The Commissioner for Youth Development, Hon. Gold Adedayo, echoed these sentiments, describing the interaction as a substantial platform for building a robust future for Ekiti by empowering its youth.
He commended the Governor for establishing a modern youth center with internet facilities and for supporting the textile industry through the First Lady’s Adire Hub initiative, which has trained many youths in business skills.
Governor Oyebanji’s promises and the youth’s vote of confidence signal a concerted effort to address the root causes of youth migration and to foster a more prosperous and stable future for Ekiti State.
