Eko Youth Summit Calls for Greater Youth Inclusion in Governance

The Fifth Assembly of the Lagos State Youth Parliament has held the maiden edition of the Eko Youth Parliamentary Summit, urging stronger government attention to youth-focused policies and deeper inclusion of young people in governance processes. The summit, held at the Lateef Jakande Auditorium within the Assembly Complex in Alausa, Ikeja, brought together lawmakers, youth leaders and political stakeholders.

Delivering the keynote address, Mukhail Adetokunbo Abiru charged young people to move beyond passive engagement and take advantage of legislative platforms to contribute meaningful ideas that can shape public policy. He emphasised that youths must understand legislative principles, procedures and practices to prepare themselves for leadership responsibilities.

Abiru noted that the Lagos State Government recognises young people not only as leaders of tomorrow but as critical actors in today’s governance structure. He urged youth parliamentarians to remain disciplined, study issues thoroughly and propose workable solutions capable of addressing real societal challenges.

In her goodwill message, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Youth and Social Development, Pharm. (Mrs.) Toyin Oke-Osanyintolu, described the summit as a deliberate initiative to expose youths early to legislative processes and constructive civic engagement. Other dignitaries, including Deputy Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly Rt. Hon. Mojisola Lasbat Meranda, commended the initiative.

Speaker of the Youth Parliament, Rt. Hon. Maria Itunuoluwa Soniregun, assured participants that the platform would be effectively utilised to pass impactful bills aimed at improving the welfare and opportunities available to young people across Lagos State.