By Peter Omopo
Lagos State Deputy Governor Obafemi Hamzat has represented President Bola Tinubu at the foundation-laying ceremony for an international centre for youth empowerment and intercultural dialogue at Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Osun State.
Hamzat disclosed this in a statement posted on his official X account on Saturday, October 17, describing the project as an initiative aimed at creating opportunities for young Nigerians.
The facility, named the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Centre for Youth Empowerment and Inter-Cultural Dialogue, is expected to support youth development and promote dialogue across cultures.
The deputy governor emphasised the importance of investing in education, skills acquisition and platforms that prepare young people to contribute meaningfully to national development.
“The importance of investing in young people, creating opportunities for them to thrive, and encouraging dialogue across cultures cannot be overemphasised,” Hamzat stated.
He noted that young Nigerians possess the talent, ideas and determination needed to shape the country’s future but require an enabling environment to develop their abilities and translate them into meaningful contributions to society.
“Our youth have the talent, ideas and determination to shape a better future. What they need is the right environment to learn and turn their potential into meaningful contributions to society,” he said.
Hamzat added that empowering young people requires deliberate investment in education, skills development and initiatives that encourage active participation in nation-building.
He also reaffirmed his commitment to supporting programmes that promote inclusion and expand opportunities for young people, particularly in Lagos State.
The deputy governor said he remained committed to building a Lagos where every young person has a fair opportunity to succeed and realise their potential.
