The Osun State Government has restated its unwavering dedication to youth development and transparent governance following a recent petition by the civic group, Checkam Initiative, questioning the reported N2.29 billion expenditure in the 2025 third-quarter Budget Implementation Report.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, the Ministry of Youth Affairs said it has “never operated in secrecy,” noting that even before the Freedom of Information (FOI) request, its operations have remained open and accessible.
According to the ministry, the Adeleke administration has consistently placed young people at the centre of its development agenda. It emphasized that Governor Ademola Adeleke is committed to youth inclusion, empowerment, and sustainable development across all local government areas of the state.
Imole Youth Corps, Skills Training Account for Expenditure
The ministry explained that the reported N2.29 billion represents ongoing investments in youth-focused programmes. These include the Imole Youth Corps, which pays N300 million in monthly allowances to its 10,000 beneficiaries.
It added that the funds also cover digital and vocational skills training aimed at boosting employability, rehabilitation of youth-oriented infrastructure across the state, and entrepreneurship grants supported by mentorship schemes.
“These programmes are directly aligned with the administration’s vision to empower young people as innovators, leaders and active contributors to Osun’s growth,” the statement noted.
Transparency Remains a Core Principle
The Ministry highlighted that multiple engagement platforms consultations, feedback channels and continuous dialogues—have been established to ensure citizens remain informed and involved in youth-related initiatives.
“The Adeleke administration believes open governance and youth engagement are inseparable. Constructive dialogue and civic participation only strengthen our programmes and reinforce accountability,” it said.
Rejects Politicisation of Youth Programmes
Reacting to the petition, the Ministry dismissed what it described as attempts to politicise youth development, stressing that such narratives undermine the purpose of empowerment initiatives.
“Youth development is above politics,” the statement read. “The Imole Youth Corps and other interventions are strictly inclusive, benefiting young people irrespective of political affiliation.”
The ministry reaffirmed its commitment to delivering measurable results and called on stakeholders to collaborate and support youth-focused initiatives
