By: Our Correspondence

Lagostrend report that the maiden edition of the Epe Division Youth Summit has ended on a positive note, with prominent academics, political representatives, community leaders and security agencies calling on young people to shun drug abuse, embrace responsible leadership and actively contribute to good governance and sustainable community development.

The summit, organised by Epe Club in collaboration with the Concerned Nation Builders Initiative (CNI), was held on Saturday, October 17, 2026, at the Epe Club Main Hall, T-Junction, Epe, Lagos State.

Held under the theme, “Empowering the Youth for Responsible Leadership, Good Governance and Sustainable Community Development,” the gathering brought together youth organisations, community stakeholders, political representatives and security agencies to discuss the responsibilities of young people in building a peaceful, progressive and prosperous Epe Division.

The event provided an important platform for discussions on drug abuse prevention, responsible social media engagement, personal development, political inclusion and the need to prepare young people for leadership responsibilities.

PROF. FOLARIN WARNS YOUTHS AGAINST DRUG ABUSE

Speaking at the summit, Professor Basirat Olushola Oladipupo-Folarin, Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Lagos State University of Science and Technology (LASUSTECH) and the first female professor from Epe Division, urged young people to make decisions that would protect their future and position them for meaningful contributions to society.

Addressing critical challenges facing the younger generation, Prof. Folarin emphasised the dangers of drug abuse, the influence of social media and the importance of youth participation in politics and governance.

She warned young people against allowing their youthful age to become an excuse for irresponsible conduct or decisions that could jeopardise their ambitions.

“Do not allow anybody to use your youthful age against your future,” she admonished.

On drug abuse, the professor encouraged youths to avoid substance abuse and other harmful behaviours that could undermine their health, personal development and future prospects.

She stressed that discipline, sound judgement and positive values were essential to achieving personal goals and becoming responsible members of society.

Prof. Folarin also highlighted the importance of using social media responsibly, urging young people to be conscious of the content they consume and share on digital platforms.

She encouraged them to utilise social media for learning, networking, talent development and the promotion of positive initiatives, while protecting their reputations and future opportunities.

On political inclusion, she called for greater opportunities for young people to participate meaningfully in governance and decision-making processes.

According to her message, young people must move beyond passive interest in political affairs and become active contributors to policies, programmes and initiatives that affect their communities.

Her remarks reinforced the summit’s central message that the future of Epe Division depends significantly on empowering young people with the knowledge, values and opportunities required for responsible leadership.

OGUNGBO CHARGES YOUTHS ON DISCIPLINE, PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT

Also speaking at the event, Hon. Sufwan Temitope Ogungbo, Supervisor for Environmental Services, Ibeju-Lekki Local Government, represented the Executive Chairman, Hon. (Engr.) Abdullahi Sesan Olowa.

Ogungbo conveyed the chairman’s greetings to the organisers and participants, acknowledging the importance of the gathering in bringing young people and community stakeholders together to discuss issues affecting the division.

He encouraged youths to remain focused on personal development, uphold integrity and contribute positively to the progress of their communities.

The council official emphasised the importance of protecting their reputations and avoiding actions capable of damaging their public image or limiting their future opportunities.

He noted that young people who embraced discipline, hard work, responsible behaviour and continuous learning would be better prepared to take advantage of opportunities and assume leadership responsibilities.

His message further reinforced the need for young people to cultivate positive attitudes and develop themselves for greater responsibilities in their communities and society at large.

HAMZAT REPRESENTED BY HON. IDRIS ALOMA

The APC governorship candidate in Lagos State, Dr. Kadir Obafemi Hamzat, who was listed as Chairman of the Occasion, was represented at the summit by Hon. Idris Aloma.

The participation of political representatives and community stakeholders reflected the importance of engaging young people in conversations about leadership, governance and sustainable development.

Youth organisations from Epe Division and neighbouring communities also participated in the programme, demonstrating a shared interest in youth empowerment and community advancement.

Among the groups in attendance were the National Youth Council of Nigeria chapters in Ibeju-Lekki, Eredo, Ikosi-Ejinrin and Epe.

Other participating organisations included the City Boys Movement, EYO Organization, Epe’s People’s Voice and artisans from Eredo and Epe, alongside other youth associations and community stakeholders.

Their participation highlighted the importance of unity, collaboration and collective responsibility in addressing challenges facing young people and promoting development across Epe Division.

SECURITY AGENCIES SUPPORT CALL FOR PEACE AND SAFETY

The summit also attracted representatives of key security agencies, including the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Nigeria Police Force and the Nigerian Army, Epe Barracks.

Their participation underscored the importance of cooperation between security institutions, youth organisations and community leaders in promoting peace, preventing drug abuse and strengthening public safety.

The engagement further highlighted the role of responsible citizenship, respect for the law and community participation in building a safer environment for residents.

Other distinguished personalities who featured among the speakers and programme guests included Professor Nosirudeen Olajide Ongbon and Professor Grayray Olushola Oladipupo Eglarin.

EPE CLUB, CNI APPRECIATE SUPPORTERS

Following the successful maiden edition, Epe Club and the Concerned Nation Builders Initiative expressed appreciation to the participating youth organisations, security agencies, community leaders, dignitaries and individuals who contributed to the programme.

The organisers commended the participating groups for demonstrating unity, cooperation and a shared commitment to the advancement of Epe Division.

They also appreciated the security agencies for their participation and contributions towards promoting peace, safety and order.

Individuals who supported the summit financially, morally and physically were equally recognised for their contributions to the success of the initiative.

The organisers expressed optimism that the partnerships established through the summit would encourage stronger collaboration among youth groups, community organisations and relevant institutions, leading to greater achievements in youth empowerment and community development.

SUMMIT CHARTS PATH FOR SUSTAINABLE YOUTH DEVELOPMENT

The maiden edition of the Epe Division Youth Summit marked a significant step towards promoting youth engagement, responsible leadership and inclusive community development.

Through its focus on drug abuse prevention, responsible social media use, political participation, personal development and good governance, the summit reinforced the importance of preparing young people to become productive citizens and responsible leaders.

It also demonstrated the value of bringing together academics, political representatives, security agencies, youth organisations and community stakeholders to address issues affecting the younger generation.

The collaboration between Epe Club and CNI provided a platform for constructive dialogue and strengthened the call for collective action towards building a better future for Epe Division.

As the division continues to pursue sustainable development, the summit’s message remains relevant: young people must embrace discipline, integrity, responsible citizenship and active participation in community affairs.

The successful maiden edition has established a foundation for continued engagement on youth empowerment, leadership development and good governance, with stakeholders encouraged to sustain the spirit of cooperation beyond the event.

Ultimately, empowering young people with the right values, knowledge and opportunities remains essential to building a peaceful, inclusive and prosperous Epe Division.

See pictures below

REPORT BY LAGOSTREND MEDIA