The South West Youth Parliament has appealed to governors across the region to intensify security interventions, empower the youth through sustainable policies, and address the escalating threats posed by climate change.
The youth legislative body, led by its Speaker, Hon. Temitope Joseph, made the appeal during its plenary session held inside the Ogun State House of Assembly chamber in Abeokuta, where members also reiterated the need to reposition the South West Development Commission for optimum regional development.
“We acknowledge the strides made by our governors, but we must go beyond commendation,” Hon. Joseph said. “We are urging state governments to deepen security efforts, promote youth-friendly policies, and strengthen collaboration with Amotekun and other security agencies.”
Representatives from all six South West states participated in the plenary, where they passed a vote of confidence on the region’s governors, praising their leadership and governance initiatives that have propelled growth across their states.
“Amotekun has been a bold step in regional security architecture. But the rise in violent incidents shows more needs to be done,” Joseph stressed. “Equipping the security outfit, enhancing intelligence gathering, and ensuring a seamless synergy with federal agencies is critical.”
On climate change, the youth legislators expressed concern over the increasing cases of flooding, heatwaves, and other environmental disasters ravaging the region, urging proactive government policies to mitigate the damage.
“Climate change is no longer a distant threat—it is here,” Joseph warned. “We urge our leaders to embrace renewable energy, support sustainable farming, and improve emergency response systems in vulnerable communities.”
The youth lawmakers also commended the various youth empowerment programs across the South West and lauded the efforts of federal and state officials in promoting youth inclusion in governance.
“Our heartfelt appreciation goes to our governors and youth commissioners for their dynamic approach to youth development,” Joseph noted. “They’ve initiated policies that are truly shaping the future of our generation.”
He reserved special praise for the Minister of Youth Development, Hon. Ayodele Olawande, describing him as “a committed and visionary leader” whose initiatives in education, entrepreneurship, and skills development have uplifted thousands of young Nigerians.
“Hon. Olawande has continued to champion real change. His programs are not just impactful but inspiring to the youth across Nigeria,” he added.
The Parliament also acknowledged the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, commending his policy direction and recent establishment of the South West Development Commission.
“The President’s vision for a united and progressive Nigeria deserves praise,” Joseph said. “However, we call on him to urgently address the worsening state of federal roads in the South West. These roads have become hazardous and must be fixed immediately to prevent further loss of lives.”
The youth parliamentarians closed the session with a passionate call for a just and prosperous Nigeria where every citizen has access to basic amenities, equal opportunities, and security.
“We envision a Nigeria that protects its people, empowers its youth, and provides a dignified life for all. It is not too much to ask,” the Speaker concluded.
