Hon. Oluwaseun Fakorede, born on May 22, 1992, in Oyo State, Nigeria, is a trailblazing engineer, entrepreneur, and politician who has made remarkable strides in governance, youth development, and public service. Known for his dynamic leadership, Fakorede has become an inspiration for young Nigerians, demonstrating that age is no barrier to impactful public service. His journey from a modest upbringing in Ibadan to the corridors of power reflects resilience, purpose, and a commitment to societal betterment.
Fakorede’s academic foundation is rooted in excellence. He attended Government College, Ibadan, and Oladipo Alayande School of Science, where he developed a passion for engineering and problem-solving. He later pursued Civil Engineering at Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, where he graduated in 2016. During his undergraduate years, Fakorede displayed leadership potential, actively participating in community development and youth-driven initiatives.
In August 2019, at the age of 27, Fakorede became the youngest commissioner in Nigeria’s history when Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State appointed him as Commissioner for Youth and Sports. His appointment marked a bold statement about the inclusion of young people in governance. Fakorede’s tenure was characterized by innovation, rebranding, and strategic leadership, particularly in the sports sector, where he rejuvenated Oyo State’s clubs and promoted youth engagement through diverse programs.
A passionate advocate for youth empowerment, Fakorede founded Home Advantage Africa (HAA), a non-profit organization dedicated to fostering African patriotism and leadership among young people. Under his leadership, HAA has championed initiatives that align with the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly those focused on education, entrepreneurship, and governance. Fakorede believes in the transformative power of young people and has worked tirelessly to position them as catalysts for change.
Fakorede’s work has earned him numerous awards and recognitions, including the prestigious Future Awards Africa Prize for Governance in 2020. In 2022, he was named one of the five recipients of the One Young World Politician of the Year Award, becoming the only African honoree for that year. His accolades underscore his influence in governance and his role in inspiring a new generation of leaders.
Beyond politics, Fakorede is a registered civil engineer and a fellow of several professional bodies, including the Nigerian Society of Engineers (MNSE) and the American Society of Civil Engineers. His professional affiliations demonstrate his commitment to advancing innovation and sustainability in the engineering sector. Fakorede’s approach integrates his technical expertise with his passion for community development and nation-building.
Fakorede’s personal philosophy revolves around service, leadership, and the pursuit of excellence. He is a staunch believer in the African renaissance, often advocating for greater collaboration among African nations to achieve continental progress. His interests extend to intellectual pursuits, gastronomy, and global networking, which he sees as a means to elevate Africa’s place on the world stage.
Seun Fakorede’s story is a testament to the power of vision, hard work, and a sense of purpose. As a symbol of hope and progress, he continues to inspire young people across Nigeria and beyond. Whether through public service, advocacy, or professional contributions, Fakorede exemplifies a commitment to creating a better future for Africa, one step at a time.
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