The Lagos State Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture has hosted the Lagos Youth Ambassadors representing the five administrative divisions of the State.
Receiving the delegation, Commissioner, Toke Benson-Awoyinka highlighted the Ministry’s critical role in shaping the future of Lagos youth through the promotion of tourism, cultural preservation, and the creative industries.
Benson-Awoyinka who was represented by the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Mr. Olanrewaju Bajulaiye, acknowledged the coordinating efforts of the Ministry of Youth and Social Development, emphasising that many youth-targeted initiatives closely align with the goals of the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture.
She underscored the importance of young people reconnecting with their cultural roots, noting that understanding one’s heritage provides a strong sense of purpose and direction.
“If your source is Lagos, you must not forget your source,” he said, encouraging the Ambassadors to make the most of their unique opportunity, stay focused, ask questions and take their roles seriously.
The Commissioner elaborated on the Ministry’s broad mandate, including its work in engaging youths through the creative sector, citing notable talents within the creative industries.
She, however, expressed concern over rising societal ills such as moral decay, substance abuse, and the erosion of community values, urging the Youth Ambassadors to become champions of cultural values and agents of positive change.
Benson-Awoyinka emphasised the value of education and expressed satisfaction that the Youth Ambassadors have chosen to pursue academic and civic paths.
She also encouraged them to continue their advocacy, particularly in combating drug abuse and promoting cultural awareness at the grassroots level.
The Commissioner noted that Lagos’ tourism sector offers immense opportunities, not only for visitors but also for young people eager to explore and showcase the state’s rich heritage.
As a symbolic gesture, the Commissioner presented the iconic Eyo Statue to the Ambassadors, describing it as a powerful cultural emblem representing the spirit and identity of Lagos.
Blacktalker reports that branded souvenirs were also distributed to commemorate the visit and further strengthen the bond between the youth and the Ministry.
The leader of the visiting delegation and the State Youth Ambassador, Mr. Obadare Adenekan, stated that the purpose of the courtesy visit was to foster collaboration between the state government and youth-led initiatives across Lagos.
The State Youth Ambassador gave a brief overview of the selection process for the Ambassadors, revealing that over 3,000 youths applied to the I.B.I.L.E. Academy.
According to him, from this pool, 500 were selected and trained across Lagos’ five divisions after which 50 exceptional individuals emerged as divisional ambassadors, with one ultimately chosen to represent the entire state.
He outlined the Ambassadors’ core focus areas as education, civil liberties, environment, health and economic empowerment, expressing eagerness to partner with the Ministry on impactful youth-driven projects across the state.