DR. JIDE MARTINS ADEWINLE COMMEMORATES WITH YOUTHS ON INTERNATIONAL YOUTH DAY 2025:

DR. JIDE MARTINS ADEWINLE COMMEMORATES WITH YOUTHS ON INTERNATIONAL YOUTH DAY 2025:

Oriyomi Oluseyi 

_"Local Youth Action for the SDGs and Beyond"_

Ladies and Gentlemen of the Press,

On this auspicious occasion of International Youth Day 2025, themed "Local Youth Action for the SDGs and Beyond," I, Dr. Jide Martins Adewinle, Federal Commissioner representing Ondo State at the South-West Development Commission (SWDC), extend my heartfelt greetings to the vibrant youth of Nigeria, particularly those in Ondo State. This day serves as a profound reminder of the pivotal role young people play in shaping our collective future, driving sustainable development, and transcending the boundaries of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to build resilient communities.

As we reflect together, let us draw inspiration from the timeless wisdom embedded in our Yoruba heritage. A cherished proverb reminds us: "When a youth falls, he looks ahead; when an elder falls, he looks behind." This speaks to the forward-thinking resilience and optimism of our youth, who, even in the face of challenges, remain focused on the horizon of possibilities. Another profound saying echoes: "People's actions are enough, without accompanying words, to prove the extent of their commitment to one." It underscores that true dedication is demonstrated through deeds, not mere rhetoric—a principle that resonates deeply with the theme of local action propelling global impact.

To the people of Ondo State, whom I proudly represent, and especially to our young trailblazers, I assure you: you are not alone. In every endeavor, from community initiatives to innovative startups, from environmental advocacy to social entrepreneurship, your voices are heard, your efforts valued, and your dreams supported. Your commitment, your relentless pursuit of excellence, and your boundless passion have not gone unnoticed. They illuminate the path toward a brighter Ondo and a stronger Nigeria.

As your Federal Commissioner at the SWDC, I pledge that every action, program, and project under my purview will resonate with our collective resolve to achieve the SDGs. Whether through youth empowerment schemes, skill development workshops, or infrastructure projects tailored to local needs, we will work hand-in-hand to foster inclusive growth, eradicate poverty, promote quality education, and ensure environmental sustainability—extending our efforts beyond the 2030 agenda to secure lasting prosperity.

This vision aligns seamlessly with the Renewed Hope Agenda of His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR. Through this transformative blueprint, which prioritizes economic diversification, industrialization, digitization, and youth-driven innovation, we are repositioning Nigeria as a global investment hub while addressing core challenges in security, agriculture, education, and healthcare. It is through this agenda that OUR EASE will come to every youth, especially those from Ondo State—ease in accessing opportunities, ease in realizing potentials, and ease in contributing to national renewal. The Renewed Hope Agenda is not just a policy; it is a promise of inclusive progress, where no young person is left behind.

Let us, therefore, unite in action, inspired by our shared heritage and guided by unwavering hope. Together, we will turn local youth actions into enduring legacies for the SDGs and beyond.

Thank you, and God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

*SIGNED:*

Dr. Jide Martins Adewinle  

Federal Commissioner, Ondo State Representative,  

South-West Development Commission (SWDC).