The Lagos State Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture on Thursday played host to the newly inducted Lagos Youth Ambassadors representing the five administrative divisions of the state, in a bid to foster deeper youth engagement in cultural preservation and social reform.
EpeInsights learnt that the delegation, led by State Youth Ambassador Mr. Obadare Adenekan, was received by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr. Olanrewaju Bajulaiye, who stood in for the Honourable Commissioner.
In his remarks, Bajulaiye underscored the Ministry’s commitment to empowering young people through initiatives rooted in cultural heritage, tourism, and the creative industries.
He called on the Ambassadors to take pride in their roots and become champions of positive change within their communities.
“If your source is Lagos, you must not forget your source,” he said, emphasizing the importance of cultural identity in youth development.
He also expressed concern over rising issues such as drug abuse, moral decline, and the erosion of communal values, encouraging the youth to take active roles in advocacy and grassroots mobilization.
The Permanent Secretary highlighted the Ministry’s ongoing efforts to create platforms for youth expression, particularly in the creative sector, which continues to produce globally recognized talent from Lagos.
As a symbolic gesture, Bajulaiye presented the iconic Eyo Statue to the visiting Ambassadors—an emblem of Lagos’ cultural spirit—alongside commemorative souvenirs.
In his address, Mr. Obadare Adenekan, described the visit as an opportunity to deepen collaboration between the government and youth-led initiatives.
He revealed that over 3,000 young people had applied to the I.B.I.L.E. Academy, with only 50 ultimately selected as Divisional Ambassadors, and one chosen to represent the entire state.
Adenekan outlined the group’s key focus areas; education, civil rights, environment, health, and economic empowerment and expressed enthusiasm about working with the Ministry on programs that promote culture and combat social issues such as drug abuse.
The meeting marks a significant step in the state’s broader efforts to engage young leaders in shaping a culturally vibrant and socially responsible Lagos.
