Joyce Mmereole Okoli
The Honourable Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Dr. Adegboyega Oyetola, CON, on Monday received State Directors of the City Boy Movement (CBM) from the Southwest region in Abuja, commending the group for what he described as a timely and commendable model of youth mobilisation for national development.
The delegation was led by Hon. Lamiju Alao-Akala, Director of the Movement in Oyo State, who said the visit was part of CBM’s strategic effort to strengthen engagements with public officials driving key national reforms.
Alao-Akala told the Minister that the movement was founded on the conviction that Nigeria’s youthful population must be informed, inspired, and involved in the governance process if the country must fully realise its potential.
He explained that the CBM has been working across the Southwest to simplify and communicate government policies to young citizens.
“We are bridging the information gap between national programmes and young people by translating policy messages into relatable, accessible formats,” he said.
According to him, the Movement places strong emphasis on helping youths understand ongoing reforms in economic restructuring, infrastructure development, youth opportunities and social investment programmes.
He added that the platform’s town-hall engagements, sensitisation campaigns, volunteer activities and empowerment initiatives are designed “to strengthen democratic participation and deepen national cohesion.”
Alao-Akala also highlighted the relevance of the Marine and Blue Economy sector to youth development, describing it as “one of the most promising sectors for job creation and enterprise growth.” He noted that the delegation sought the Minister’s support in “amplifying maritime and blue economy opportunities to young people in the Southwest and across the country.”
In his response, Dr. Oyetola commended the CBM for its proactive civic engagement work.
“Young Nigerians are the largest and most vibrant segment of our population. Reaching them with accurate information about government programmes is not optional, it is essential,” he said.
The Minister added that the Tinubu administration has made considerable progress across multiple sectors and stressed the importance of consistent communication.
“The achievements of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, in economic reforms, infrastructure, social programmes and institutional strengthening, must be clearly and consistently communicated, especially to our youths, who are both beneficiaries and key stakeholders in our national future,” he stated.
Dr. Oyetola also emphasised the vast potential of the Marine and Blue Economy sector, noting that it offers significant opportunities for youth employment and enterprise development.
“Our Ministry is committed to expanding indigenous participation in maritime activities. Any credible initiative that promotes youth empowerment and national development awareness will always receive our support,” he assured.
Directors in the delegation included Moyo Ogunlewe (Lagos), Kasali Oluwafemi (Ekiti) and Kayode Sowande (Osun).
