Ogun marks World Population Day, pledges greater investment in youth development

By Popoola Jamiu, Abeokuta

The Ogun State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to placing young people at the centre of its development agenda as it joined the global community to commemorate the 2026 World Population Day.

The event, held at the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) Hall in Ijeun Lukosi, Abeokuta, was organised in collaboration with the Ministry of Budget and Planning, the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), the Ogun State Bureau of Statistics (OGSBS) and the National Population Commission (NPC).

Delivering the keynote address, the Commissioner for Budget and Planning, Mr Olaolu Olabimtan, represented by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Dr Rotimiolu Akinlesi, said the 2026 theme, “Realising the Hopes and Aspirations of Young People Today and for the Future,” underscored the importance of investing in young people as a pathway to sustainable development.

He noted that World Population Day serves as a reminder that population issues go beyond numbers to encompass people’s rights, choices, opportunities, well-being and dignity.

Olabimtan called for stronger collaboration among governments, the private sector and communities to ensure that young people are empowered to realise their aspirations both now and in the future.

In her opening remarks, the Statistician-General of the Ogun State Bureau of Statistics, Mrs Omolara Adebayo, said the symposium was designed to foster meaningful dialogue among policymakers, development partners, professionals and young people.

According to her, the event aimed to deepen participants’ understanding of population dynamics, promote evidence-based planning, encourage responsible life choices and inspire young people to pursue their aspirations with confidence and determination.

She urged the students in attendance to participate actively in the discussions and make the most of the opportunities provided by the programme.

“The knowledge and inspiration you gain today may shape the decisions you make tomorrow and influence the future you aspire to build,” she said.

Also speaking, the Special Assistant to the Governor on Youth Development, Hon. Babatunde Delu, represented by the Chairman of the National Youth Council of Nigeria, Mr Akolawole Soremi, described the theme as timely and relevant.

He said Ogun State regarded its youthful population as one of its greatest assets, stressing that when young people are included in policymaking and given access to quality education, they are better positioned to achieve their full potential.

In his goodwill message, the Ogun State Officer of the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), Mr Olumide Akingbogun, reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to providing timely, reliable and disaggregated data to support planning at all levels of government and assist development partners such as UNFPA.

“We must prioritise inclusivity by leaving no one behind, especially women, youths, persons with disabilities and other vulnerable groups,” he said.

Speaking on behalf of the participants, Oladipupo Ademola of the National Youth Council of Nigeria and Azeez Zainab, a student of DS Adegbenro Polytechnic, Itori, commended the Ogun State Government for involving young people in policymaking.

They said the symposium had broadened their perspectives and exposed them to new opportunities for personal growth and development.