The founder of The Adekunle Oyedepo Foundation, Prince Adekunle Oyedepo, has called on youths across Kwara State to embrace the vision and ideals of this year’s International Youth Day (IYD) theme, “Youth Empowerment for Sustainable Development.”
Speaking in a statement to mark the 2025 International Youth Day, Prince Oyedepo described the theme as a timely reminder for young people to take charge of their future by equipping themselves with the skills, values, and mindset required to drive meaningful change in their communities.
“International Youth Day is more than just a date on the calendar; it is a call to action,” he said. “As Kwara youths, we must rise above limitations and channel our energy, creativity, and resilience into ventures that not only improve our lives but also contribute to the growth of our society. The 2025 theme challenges us to think beyond personal gains and work collectively for sustainable development.”
Prince Oyedepo, who has consistently championed youth empowerment initiatives through education support, skills acquisition programs, and financial grants for petty traders, urged young people in the state to take advantage of opportunities in technology, entrepreneurship, and civic engagement.
He further emphasized the critical role of leadership in fostering an environment where young people can thrive, calling on the state government, under Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq, to place greater priority on initiatives and policies that drive skills development, job creation, and innovation.
“As we celebrate this year’s International Youth Day, let us commit to becoming problem solvers, nation-builders, and global citizens,” he added. “The future of Kwara and Nigeria lies in the hands of her young people, and that future must be built today.”
The International Youth Day, observed globally every August 12, provides a platform for governments, organizations, and individuals to highlight youth-related issues and celebrate the contributions of young people to sustainable development.
