The Ogun State Institute of Technology (OGITECH), Igbesa, has emphasized the need to prioritize youth health as a strategic investment in boosting productivity and driving national development.
This call was made during the institute’s 2nd Annual Lecture held on Friday, with the theme “Youth Health, Productivity and National Development.” The event drew captains of industry, policymakers, and members of the academic community.
Delivering the keynote lecture, the Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Iziaq Adekunle Salako, underscored the importance of youth health in building a strong and prosperous nation.
He described young people as the “fulcrum of development,” urging them to take ownership of their future through discipline, innovation, and goal-oriented leadership.
“Good health is the foundation of human capital, happiness, and productivity,” Salako said, stressing that education, employment, and health must operate as interconnected pillars to achieve sustainable national growth.
The Rector of OGITECH, Dr. Abiodun Oluseye, in his address, reiterated that youth represent the driving force behind every progressive and innovative society. He noted that countries that thrive globally are those investing heavily in the health, capacity, and creativity of their young population.
“As a community, OGITECH will continue to partner with youth-friendly organizations to mainstream and support the innovative ideas of young people,” he added.
Chairman of the OGITECH Governing Council, Chief Ayotunde Ayokunle Odulaja, reaffirmed the council’s commitment to supporting the institute’s vision and aligning its programs with the Ogun State Government’s education priorities.
He emphasized the need for collaborative efforts to advance education and youth well-being, in line with the vision of Governor Dapo Abiodun and the State Commissioner for Education, Professor Abayomi Arigbabu.
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Also speaking, OGITECH’s Deputy Rector, Dr. Oluyemi Akanbi Odutola, expressed appreciation to the state government, the governing council, and the royal father of the day, Oba Abdulazeez Oluwatoyin Akinde, for their support. He commended the rector’s leadership and commitment to promoting academic excellence, youth empowerment, and institutional growth.
The annual lecture reinforced OGITECH’s position as a key player in nurturing youth potential as a cornerstone of Nigeria’s national development agenda.
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