Lagos hails GMP’s initiative on youth development

THE Lagos State government has praised the Guild of Muslim Professionals (GMP) for evolving a youth development programme.

The Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Mrs Uzamat Akinbile-Yussuf, who gave the commendation, urged other professional bodies to emulate GMP by coming “forward to assist the government in engaging our youths in productive ways”.

Delivering a keynote address, in Lagos, at a leadership workshop for youths in the health profession, organised by GMP Medical Group, Akinbile-Yussuf said the government could not do it alone.

“We are seeking support from corporate bodies, organisations and professionals to organise similar programmes in preparing our youths for the challenges ahead of them.

“We all believe our youths are the leaders of tomorrow. However, that tomorrow must start today. Now, the onus lies on our youths to be effective in any leadership position they find themselves. It is not in doubt that Lagos remains the most populous state in the federation by virtue of the population estimate of 23,305 million people and population density of 6,515 people per square kilometre in 2015.

“This is why Governor Akinwunmi Ambode is organising activities and programmes towards grooming our youths to be effective leaders tomorrow.

“One of such interventions is Ibile Youth Academy (IYA). This programme is aimed at addressing issues of this vibrant segment of our population and to inculcate in the youth the virtues of citizenship, leadership and volunteerism for the development of their personality, society, the state and by extension the nation”, the commisioner said.

She implored the participants to use the knowledge acquired at the workshop to mould their lives.

“I sincerely appreciate the organisers of this workshop for this wonderful package which will be beneficial to our youths in developing their skills and talents, especially those in the health sector, for the growth of our dear state and country,” she said.

The provost of the Lagos State University College of Medicine (LASUCOM), Professor Babatunde Solagberu, advised the participants to be the best in whatever they do, saying: “Even if it is language you study, be the best in it. Your career is very important. Do not be second class in your profession. Aim higher and you will be successful”.