The Lagos State Government officially inaugurated the 5th Assembly of the Lagos Youth Parliament, with a promise that more resources and efforts  will be channelled towards youth oriented programmes.

Principal officers of 5th Assembly of the Lagos State Youth Parliament are; Soniregun Maria Itunuoluwa Speaker, Prince Soyiga Samuel Adeshina Deputy Speaker, Olasupo Jubril Adedimeji Majority Leader, OJORA IYABODE RAFAT Deputy Majority Leader, Arayemi Habeebullah ISHOLA Chief whip, and Adegbola Mubarak Dare Deputy Chief Whip.

Hon. Mobolaji Ogunlede, the Commissioner of Youths and Social Development, delivered a stirring speech at the inauguration of the 5th assembly. Expressing his gratitude for being a part of this important exercise, He emphasized the significance of this event in shaping the future leaders of the community. The voting process, which was conducted with utmost transparency, allowed everyone to actively participate and contribute to the democratic process.

Hon. Ogunlede said in a departure from tradition, interviews were conducted to ensure that only the most qualified and capable youths were elected to serve. This commitment to excellence reflects the administration’s determination to bring about positive change and set a new standard for governance. The youths present at the event were fortunate to gain valuable leadership experience and witness the inner workings of the parliamentary system firsthand. This momentous occasion marks the beginning of a new era, where the voices and aspirations of the youth are given the attention they deserve.

Hon. Orekoya Abiodun, the Chairman of the House Committee on Youths and Social Developments, emphasized the importance of preparing the youth for the future. Referring to Lagos State House of Assembly as the “house above common standards of excellence,” he highlighted the significance of investing in the younger generation. Abiodun expressed his belief that the Lagos Youth Parliament is a platform for creating capable leaders who will shape tomorrow.

Addressing some concerns, He mentioned that the previous assembly, the 4th Assembly, mentioned they carried out projects, which is the Executive’s responsibility. He emphasized the need to correct this approach and redirect the focus towards lawmaking and legislative duties. Congratulating the newly inaugurated 5th Assembly, He encouraged them to work closely with the Lagos State House of Assembly to enhance their legislative skills and contribute effectively to their assigned tasks. With this collaboration, he expressed confidence in the assembly’s ability to improve and excel in their legislative assignments.

Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Youth and Social Development, Pharm (Mrs) Toyin Oke-Osanyintolu implored the new Assembly members to live up to expectations by effectively utilising the platform offered them through the Youth Assembly to initiate programmes that will transform of youth.

Pharm (Mrs) Oke-Osanyintolu said,”you are fortunate to be among the few chosen to represent other youths in the State.You cannot afford to take this for granted.

“Utiilise your period as a youth lawmaker to learn, unlearn and relearn in order to add value to the lives of more than ten million youths resident in Lagos State. By so doing, you would have helped in contributing your own quota towards youth development”

In her acceptance speech Hon. Maria Itunuoluwa Soniregun, the Speaker of the 5th Assembly, highlighted the significance of providing a platform for the voices of young people across all constituencies. With the goal of creating a better society for their fellow youths, Soniregun emphasized the importance of gaining experience and learning from the diverse perspectives of the youth.

The establishment of the Lagos youth parliament aims to empower young individuals and project the needs and aspirations of the youth constituency. Soniregun said herself and her colleagues, will work together to bring about positive change and ensure the representation of the youth in Lagos State.