14/12/2025
📰 2025 ANNUAL YOUTH CONGRESS: INDEED A REMARKABLE EXPERIENCE
Yesterday, it was indeed a remarkable experience for us at the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), Epe Branch, to successfully host the 2025 Annual Youth Congress in grand style. The event brought together youths, leaders, policymakers, development partners, and stakeholders for an impactful engagement focused on youth empowerment, self-development, and sustainable economic growth in Epe Division. We are deeply grateful to all our distinguished invited guests, partners, and participants who set aside their busy schedules to attend and support this transformative event.
This year’s Congress has positively impacted and inspired participants, particularly in the areas of self-empowerment, skill acquisition, entrepreneurial development, and economic consciousness. Anchored on the theme, “Building Bridges for Youth Employment and Entrepreneurial Success: Harnessing Innovation and Local Opportunities,” the Congress provided a timely, relevant, and practical platform for youths to engage in critical discussions, explore innovative ideas, and gain direction on creating sustainable livelihoods in an evolving socio-economic landscape.
A major highlight of the Congress was the keynote presentation delivered by Dr. Olubunmi Kole Dawodu, Deputy Director of the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN), Lagos State. She delivered an insightful and highly impactful session that did exceptional justice to the Congress theme, providing practical guidance, real-life examples, and exposing participants to available employment and entrepreneurial opportunities. Her presentation equipped our youths with the knowledge, tools, and motivation necessary to pursue productive and sustainable economic pathways.
The success of the Congress was further reinforced by the presence and active support of respected leaders and dignitaries, whose participation added significant value and elevated the programme. Their attendance demonstrated strong institutional and community backing for youth-focused initiatives in Epe Division, highlighting the shared responsibility of all stakeholders in shaping the future of young people. Among those who honoured us with their presence were Hon. Tobun Abiodun, LAHA, Epe I; Hon. Wale Raji (MHR), ably represented by Mr. Kaka Babatunde (SLA); Hon. Hammed Seriki, Commissioner II, LGSC; Hon. Wasiu Ayeola Olaomopo, Director, Lekki Worldwide (Chairman of the Occasion); Alhaja Adenike Tobun, Mother of the Day; Princess Surah Olayemi Animashaun, Executive Chairman, Epe Local Government and Grand Matron of the Council; Mrs. Yusuf M. C., TG/PS, Education District VI; Engr. Adigun Ibrahim, Chairman, NYCN Lagos State; and Asoro Abubakar, Vice Chairman, NYCN Lagos East.
In addition to the keynote address, the Congress featured dynamic panel sessions that exposed our youths to a wide array of business and entrepreneurial opportunities. These sessions encouraged interactive dialogue, practical learning, and engagement with experts, equipping participants with knowledge and strategies to navigate the challenges of employment and business development. The presence of NYCN Lagos State Executives, who accompanied the State Chairman, further strengthened the programme, demonstrating solidarity, mentorship, and commitment to youth development across the state.
We also acknowledge the invaluable contribution of media personnel and media crews whose professional coverage amplified the reach and visibility of the Congress, ensuring that the key messages, insights, and opportunities shared during the event reached a wider audience. Our appreciation extends to Hypo Company for their partnership, product support, and distribution of products during the Congress, which contributed significantly to the success of the programme.
Special commendation goes to our dedicated executives, leaders, Youth Congress Planning Committee, and the entire membership of NYCN Epe for their unwavering commitment, teamwork, and tireless efforts in planning and executing the Congress. Their collaboration and professionalism were central to delivering a seamless, impactful, and memorable event.
We celebrate all participants and beneficiaries of our SKILL FOR ALL Initiative, emphasizing that the Congress is not an end, but the beginning of sustained follow-up, mentorship, and empowerment efforts. These initiatives are designed to ensure that youths in Epe Division are self-reliant, innovative, and economically independent, fostering a generation of skilled, confident, and empowered young people ready to contribute meaningfully to society.
Finally, we express our heartfelt appreciation to all individuals and organizations whose names could not be mentioned individually, recognizing their contributions, support, and commitment to the success of the 2025 Annual Youth Congress. The programme reaffirmed our Council’s dedication to building a vibrant, empowered, and economically conscious youth population in Epe Division.
Thank you all for coming, standing with us, and believing in our vision of youth empowerment. Your participation and support are invaluable. God bless you all.
Build the Youth!
Build the Nation!
