Members of the South West Youth Parliament led by its Speaker Hon. Temitope Joseph today had its plenary at the Ogun State House of Assembly chamber with a request to all the State Governors in the region to further strengthen security, address the impact of climate change, youth unemployment and empowerment as well as repositioning the South West Development Commission to advance the development of the region.

The youth parliamentarians who cut across the six States in the region also passed a vote of confidence on the Governors and commended them for their administrative ingenuity leading to socio-economic and political development of the South West States, while appreciating Ogun State House of Assembly led by Speaker Oludaisi Elemide and the conference of Speakers in Nigeria for their support at all times.

“We are commending the Southwest Governors and Assembly Speakers for their commitment to the security of lives and properties of the resident and indigenes of the region through the establishment of the Southwest Security Network Codenamed AMOTEKUN.

Nonetheless, we want to remind you again that insecurity has become a major concern for residents, businesses, and visitors alike in the region following the frequent attacks on Southwest States.

We are urging the government to take concrete steps to address the root causes of insecurity in the region, we also call for increased security measures, such as improved policing and community engagement, further equipping the Southwest Security Network (AMOTEKUN) to combat infiltrators and other security threats, government should ensure cordial working relationship between the Southwest security outfit and the security agencies in order to ensure the safety of lives and property.

Southwest region is not immune to the effects of climate change. Rising temperatures, flooding, and other extreme weather events are having a devastating impact on our environment, economy, and public health.

We urge the government to prioritize climate change mitigation and adaptation strategies, including investing in renewable energy, promoting sustainable agriculture, and enhancing disaster preparedness.

We also call on the government to provide support to communities affected by climate-related disasters and to prioritize environmental protection in its policy decisions.

We commend our Governors and commissioners for youth for their exceptional leadership style and for their several youth policies and empowerment programme that have been favourable to the teeming youths of the Southwest region, we commend them for their efforts that have been instrumental in shaping the future of our youth; their dedication to addressing the challenges faced by young people and creating opportunities for their growth and development is a testament to their passion and commitment to the well-being of Southwest youths.

We equally commend our youthful and useful Minister of Youth Development, Hon. Ayodele Olawande who has demonstrated exceptional leadership and vision in implementing various initiatives that have positively impacted the lives of Nigerian youths. His commitment to empowering young people through education, skills development, and entrepreneurship opportunities is truly commendable”, he remarked.

The youth parliament also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for demonstrating strong leadership and a deep commitment to the development and progress of Nigeria.

“We thank him for the creation of the Southwest Development Commission, we are aware that this administration has implemented various policies and initiatives aimed at improving the economy, infrastructure, education, and healthcare, among other key areas.

Under his leadership, the government has taken bold steps to address pressing challenges and promote sustainable growth and development. His vision for a prosperous and united Nigeria is inspiring, and his efforts to engage with various stakeholders and promote national dialogue are commendable.

As Nigerian youths, we look forward to a better, safe and sane Nigeria where Nigerians will be equal before the law, a Nigeria that will not abhor lawlessness, a thriving and a prosperous Nigeria and thus, we call on the President to tackle the prevailing insecurity in some parts of the country and even in our region, we call on you to listen to the cry of the common citizen of the country by providing basic amenities needed for a good life in our dear country”, Hon. Joseph stated.

They called on the President to address the deteriorated state of the various federal road networks in the Southwest region of the country, which they noted were “gradually becoming a death trap, daily”.