Hon. Oladele John Nihi, Special Adviser to the Kogi State Governor on Youth and Students Matters, will deliver the keynote address at this year’s Ogidi Day Festival, focusing on youth mentoring and self-reliance.
The annual Ogidi Day celebration, regarded as one of Kogi State’s most prominent cultural gatherings and a flagship event in Okun land, will centre this year on heritage, unity, and community development. Organizers say the inclusion of a dedicated youth segment reflects Ogidi’s commitment to preparing the next generation for leadership and economic independence.
Confirming his participation, Hon. Nihi said his session, themed “Mentoring for Purpose and Building Self-Reliant Youths,” will tackle unemployment, skill gaps, and limited access to opportunities facing young people in Ijumu and across Kogi. He will outline practical pathways in mentorship, vocational training, entrepreneurship, and how youths can access state and federal government programmes.
“We cannot build a prosperous Ogidi, Ijumu, or Kogi without intentionally equipping our youths,” Nihi stated. “My message is simple: every young person needs a mentor, a skill, and a vision. Government is creating the enabling environment through skills acquisition, student support schemes, and private sector partnerships. But youths must also take ownership of their future through self-help and discipline.”
The Ogidi Day Festival Planning Committee welcomed his involvement as timely. Chief Shuaib Ipinmisho, Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Land Matters and a committee member, said the festival has evolved from cultural display to a platform for development dialogue. “Having the Governor’s Adviser on Youth Matters address our young people adds real value. We expect this session to connect them with mentors, training opportunities, and practical ideas they can act on immediately,” Chief Shuaib noted.
Widely recognised as the cradle of Okun culture, Ogidi Day has over the years attracted traditional rulers, political leaders, professionals, and indigenes from across Nigeria and the diaspora. This year’s edition will feature cultural performances, award presentations, lectures, and empowerment activities.
Stakeholders believe Hon. Nihi’s session will deepen conversations on youth development in Okun nation. With youth unemployment still a national concern, the festival offers a strategic platform to inspire self-reliance and spotlight government intervention programmes for students and young entrepreneurs.
The youth mentoring segment is scheduled as part of the day’s activities and will provide opportunities for participants to network with successful Okun indigenes in business, technology, education, and public service.
With preparations at an advanced stage, organizers expect a large turnout of youths who will benefit from mentorship and networking. The 2026 Ogidi Day Festival continues its tradition of celebrating heritage while inspiring progress for Ogidi and the entire Okun nation.
