Youth Representation In Sagamu: Ogun Lawmaker Hon. Mohammed Damilare Bello Backtracks, Acknowledges NYCN’s Authority, Calls For Inclusive Development
By Oludare Joshua
Hon. Omooba Damilare Mohammed Bello popularly known as DRE, representative of Sagamu 1 (Offin) Constituency in the Ogun State House of Assembly, has issued a statement on November 2nd, 2025, addressing the concerns raised by the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), Sagamu Branch, led by Comrade Yusuf Adebayo, following his recent comments at the Sagamu Youth Night.
In his statement, Hon. Bello expressed his appreciation for the input from the NYCN leadership and recognized their critical role as a national representative body for youth organizations across Nigeria.
During the events of the Sagamu Day Festival, Hon. Bello aimed to engage with various stakeholders and highlight their contributions to the community’s development. However, he acknowledges that his remarks may have unintentionally been interpreted as favoring one youth organization over another.
Hon. Bello explains that his speech during the Sagamu Day Youth Night held on November 1st, 2025, in commemorating the 41st Sagamu Day Festival events was to foster engagement and acknowledge the efforts of various youth stakeholders contributing to the community’s progress. He clarifies that his remarks were not intended to undermine the NYCN’s authority or legacy.
”I hold the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) in high regard. I fully acknowledge its constitutional and historical significance as the authoritative umbrella organization for Nigerian youth, whose legacy and mandate are indispensable to youth development across the nation, Ogun State, and Sagamu,” Hon. Bello stated.
“To be clear,” said Hon. Bello, “I hold the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) in the highest regard. Their historical significance and role as the primary umbrella organization for Nigerian youth are invaluable. Any interpretation of my comments as an attempt to diminish the NYCN’s authority is regrettable, unintentional and retractable”.
Moreover, he reaffirmed his commitment to fostering an inclusive environment for all youth organizations within his constituency, emphasizing that his role as a legislator is to serve the interests of all the youth in Sagamu 1.
In light of this misunderstanding, Hon. Bello expressed his desire to engage constructively with youth leaders. He acknowledged the NYCN’s challenge and committed to reviewing legislative frameworks related to youth representation, ensuring that his public comments align with established protocols.
To move forward, Hon. Bello calls for unified action, proposing a legislative review, immediate dialogue with the NYCN Sagamu Executive, and a focus on serving the youth of Sagamu.
”I call upon Comrade Yusuf Adebayo and the entire NYCN Sagamu Executive for a direct, private meeting within the next seven days to discuss their structure, hear their concerns, and collaboratively identify how my office can best support their mandate moving forward,” Hon. Bello said.
In conclusion, Hon. Bello encourages the youth of Sagamu to treat this situation as an opportunity for clarification rather than conflict. He emphasizes the importance of unity and mutual respect in building a brighter future for all.
The statement is signed by Hon. Omooba Damilare Mohammed Bello (DRE), Member, Ogun State House of Assembly, Sagamu 1 (Offin) Constituency.
