The Lagos State Youth Ambassadors recently held an engaging and insightful fireside chat with the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, Mrs. Abisola Dokunmu-Adegbite, as part of ongoing efforts to inspire young people towards educational excellence, responsible leadership and personal growth.
The team from IBILE Youth Academy was led by the Director, Youth Development Department, Mr. Julius Folasayo Olukosi of the Ministry of Youth and Social Development (MYSD). The interactive session, held in the Conference room of the Ministry on Monday, provided a unique platform for meaningful dialogue between the youth and government leadership, with discussions centred on education, leadership values, resilience, self-development and the importance of staying true to one’s identity.
Speaking during the session, the Permanent Secretary emphasised the critical role of education as a foundation for success and national development. She encouraged the youths to remain focused on their academic pursuits, noting that education remains one of the most powerful tools for empowerment and societal transformation.
Mrs. Dokunmu-Adegbite advised the youths to identify the gaps in their various communities and organise programmes that will have an impact on the people “You are as good as Generals as the Lieutenant that you are. Wherever you find yourself, do something that stands you out. Build yourself into people who cannot be ignored. You can build on your Ambassadorial nomination if you are very serious”, she advised.
The Permanent Secretary further advised the students and young leaders to believe in themselves, remain authentic and never succumb to negative peer pressure or societal distractions. According to her, self-confidence, discipline and integrity are essential qualities for attaining greatness and becoming impactful leaders in society.
Highlighting the importance of resilience, the Permanent Secretary urged the participants not to be discouraged by setbacks or challenges, stressing that perseverance, consistency and determination are vital ingredients for success. She encouraged them to view challenges as stepping stones to growth and opportunities for learning.
She also made it known that the Ministry is ready to partner with the Ambassadors on their pet projects to enable them to appreciate how the Government functions. She commended the Ministry of Youth and Social Development for its sustained efforts in youth development across Lagos State.
On leadership, the Permanent Secretary charged the youths to lead by positive example, demonstrate responsibility and contribute meaningfully to their communities. She noted that true leadership is rooted in service, empathy, accountability and the ability to inspire others positively. “Be a blessing and not a lesson”, she concluded.
The fireside chat also featured interactive conversations, questions and reflections from participants, creating an atmosphere of openness, mentorship and motivation.
Participants described the session as impactful, enlightening and inspiring, expressing appreciation for the opportunity to interact directly with the Permanent Secretary and gain valuable life lessons and guidance.
The Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to promoting quality education, youth development and leadership mentoring initiatives aimed at nurturing future leaders and responsible citizens for the continued growth and development of Lagos State.
The IBILE Youth Academy is a leadership platform that has young people to nurture and develop their talents. It identifies people between the ages of 15 and 24. The Academy works with a Consultant, whereby 100 youths are chosen to represent each division. The best 10 are selected for boot camp and go through rigorous exercises until one person emerges to represent each division - Ikorodu, Badagry, Ikeja, Lagos Island and Epe, while one person emerges to represent the State.
Present at the Fireside chat were other Directors from different Departments and Units such as the Public Private Partnership on Secondary Education, the Comprehensive Schools in charge of the Physically challenged, Basic Education Services, Science and Technology, to mention a few. Others are the Coordinator of IBILE Youth Development Mrs. A. Umar and State Ambassador, Adetomiwa Banjo.
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