Recently, Youth Development and Empowerment Initiative (YEDI) team, led by Executive Director Adeoye Oluwatomisin, embarked on a pivotal meeting with key stakeholders from the Lagos State Ministry of Youth and Social Development. The gathering brought together Honourable Commissioner Mr. Mobolaji Ogunlende, Permanent Secretary Pharm (Mrs.) Toyin Oke-Osanyintolu, and other senior officials to explore innovative adolescent health and empowerment programs, as well as potential partnerships that could shape the future of Lagos’ youth.
At the heart of the discussion was YEDI’s mission to educate, empower, and inspire Nigerian youth through impactful programs, with a specific focus on adolescent health and well-being. The organization’s flagship program, SKILLZ, was highlighted as a beacon of success, utilizing soccer as a tool to engage adolescents on critical health issues, promote healthy behaviors, and foster essential life skills. This initiative has already demonstrated remarkable impact, reached over 370,000 adolescents and provided them with comprehensive information and services related to sexual and reproductive health, gender-based violence, and mental health.
The meeting served as a platform for YEDI to showcase its achievements, including the positive impact on over 450,000 lives nationwide, with a significant presence in Lagos, where 250,000 young people across 20 local government areas have benefited from their programs. The Honourable Commissioner’s reaffirmation of his commitment to supporting YEDI’s initiatives across Lagos State underscored the government’s dedication to empowering young people and driving transformative change, especially in alignment with the THEMES PLUS agenda.
As YEDI looks to the future, the organization is poised to strengthen its partnership with the Lagos State government, leveraging this collaboration to create brighter futures for young Nigerians. By working together, YEDI aims to empower adolescents with the knowledge, skills, and support necessary to thrive in their communities, ultimately contributing to a more vibrant and prosperous society. The meeting marked a significant step in this journey, solidifying YEDI’s position as a key player in the pursuit of adolescent health and empowerment in Lagos State.