By Jamiu Ganiyu
To stem the rate of unemployment and crime in Osun State, Governor Gboyega Oyetola has reiterated his resolve to prioritize youths’ engagement in his government by empowering them in the areas of mining and agriculture.
Mr. Gboyega Oyetola made this known today while playing host to national executive members of the Nasir-l Fathi Society, NASFAT, who were on a courtesy visit to him at the Office of the Governor, Osogbo, the state capital.
He, however, admitted that his desire to engage the youths in those areas would be a tough one considering Nigerian youth attitude towards agriculture and mining.
In his words, Governor Oyetola said, “I have always believed in youths in agriculture, but I realized it’s a tough one.
“Why do I say that? There is an issue of attitudinal problems with the youths when it comes to agriculture.
He went further to state salient requirements of agriculture among which were commitment, dedication, and patience. He said today’s youths were impatient and too desirous of quick rich.
“Agriculture is an enduring profession. If you do it well, it is very profitable. But if you are looking for immediate gain, it is not there.
He recalled how the effort of the last administration to motivate youths by sending them to overseas for training yet there was no positive impact of the international exposure “Some of them were even sent to Germany for training, and they were given acres of land and money. But it just didn’t work out”, he said.
The Osun State Governor promised that his government would not rest on its oars in the empowerment of youths, as they had done previously by sending them abroad for training in agriculture.