The Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice in Ondo State, Dr. Olukayode Ajulo (SAN), has called on youths across the Southwest to adopt innovation, ethical leadership, and deliberate preparation as essential tools for building a resilient future.
Speaking at the Southwest Youth Summit 4.0 held at the International Culture and Event Centre (The Dome) in Akure, Ajulo noted that the fast-changing global environment demands a generation that is proactive, skilled, and purpose-driven.
Delivering a keynote address on the theme “Driving Lasting Impact: Anticipating & Preparing Youth for Tomorrow’s Challenges,” he stressed that the future must be intentionally shaped through foresight and disciplined action. According to him, “The future does not come by chance; it is created through anticipation, preparation, and purposeful effort.”
Ajulo outlined major challenges confronting young people today, including technological disruption, climate change, economic shifts, governance gaps, and increasing social pressures. He urged youths to adopt what he described as a “Renaissance mindset,” blending local knowledge with global innovation.
Highlighting government efforts to empower young people, the Attorney General commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for prioritizing youth development under the Renewed Hope Agenda. He noted that initiatives such as the Nigeria Youth Academy and the 3 Million Technical Talent Programme are opening new pathways for skills development and entrepreneurship.
Quoting the President, Ajulo said Nigerian youths are not only the nation’s future but also its hope for a stronger and more prosperous tomorrow, adding that current investments are designed to equip them for greater opportunities.
At the state level, he praised Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa for implementing impactful, people-oriented youth programmes. He highlighted initiatives like “One Youth, One Skill,” nano-grants for small businesses, and the establishment of skill acquisition centres as clear steps toward expanding economic opportunities.
“True leadership is not in words but in the opportunities it creates,” Ajulo remarked, noting that Ondo State is steadily emerging as a centre for youth-driven innovation and inclusive growth.
He encouraged young people to become ethical innovators, environmentally conscious leaders, and builders of strong institutions, emphasizing that integrity remains a critical asset in today’s world.
“Think boldly, innovate fearlessly, and act with discipline,” he charged.