The Scout Association of Nigeria, Oyo State Council, has appointed former Deputy Chief of Staff and Commissioner for Finance and Budget in Oyo State, Abimbola Adekanmbi, as its new president.

Adekanmbi, who also chairs the committee overseeing the upgrade of the Samuel Ladoke Akintola Airport in Alakia, Ibadan, was officially inducted as president during the organisation’s Founder’s Day celebration and Annual General Meeting (AGM) held at its state headquarters in Agodi, Ibadan.

During the investiture ceremony, Scout executives decorated Adekanmbi as the state president. Following his induction, he led members in honouring the organisation’s founder, Lord Robert Baden-Powell, as part of activities marking Powell’s Day.

Speaking at the event, Adekanmbi expressed his delight at the appointment, pledging to uphold the organisation’s values and integrity while advancing the development of the Oyo State Council. He promised to initiate educational programmes and skills acquisition initiatives to support the younger generation in the organisation.

“I am impressed with the young kids; they are promising. I assure you that I will give my best to impact lives, just as we have been doing in other areas through education and skill acquisition,” he said.

He emphasised that his nomination was not influenced by politics or special preferences, stating, “The organisation has its reasons for my investiture as president. My goal is to make a significant impact within the organisation and set a lasting record in its history.”

Adekanmbi further urged young Nigerians to use the opportunities presented by the ‘Japa syndrome’—the trend of seeking opportunities abroad—to positively influence their immediate environment and support the next generation within the country.

“This effort will lead to individual, societal, and developmental growth in the country. Nigeria has incredible potential, and we all need to contribute, especially aspiring and resourceful youth.

“It is a collective responsibility, and we must not waver. I encourage all well-meaning Nigerians to create more opportunities for younger generations to thrive. I will not relent in my efforts, even with this new assignment,” he added.

Dr Zark Ekanola, the State Commissioner of the Oyo State Scout Council, described Adekanmbi’s appointment as a new dawn for the council. He noted that Adekanmbi’s track record of achievements made him a deserving choice for the respected position and expressed confidence in his ability to bring positive transformation to the organisation.

Chaplain Samuel Ferguson, who was also present at the event, commended the steady progress of the Oyo State Scout Council and congratulated Adekanmbi on his new role.