Maryam Aminu
Youth empowerment is a concept that has gained significant attention in recent years, and for good reason. Youth represent not only the future, but also the driving force of our society.
They possess boundless energy, creativity, and the potential to shape the world in ways we can only imagine. However, to harness this potential and ensure a brighter future for all, it is imperative that we prioritise youth empowerment in our society.
As the Minister of Youth Development in Nigeria, my commitment to empower our nation’s youth has been unwavering.
This was contained in a message personally signed by the Honourable Minister of Youth Development Dr Jamila Bio Ibrahim and made available to journalists on Wednesday 31 January, 2024 in Abuja
Bio- Ibrahim disclosed that since assumption of office as the Minister of Youth Development, she has focused on laying a strong foundation for strategies that will profoundly impact Nigerian youth.
“As the Minister of Youth Development, entrusted with the task of delivering on the consistent promise of Mr. President, His Excellency Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, to create enduring and sustainable streams of opportunities for Nigerian Youths. This foundational phase, though essential, is less visible, but has involved aligning critical stakeholders within and outside the government to ensure the success of Mr. President’s initiatives.
Explaining the disconnect between youth and governments, she said:
“One of the key reasons for my deliberate pace in announcing policies and initiatives has been the recognition of the trust deficit between the Nigerian youth and successive governments. This fracture lies at the very core of our nation’s struggles with insecurity and poverty. Over the years, this trust has been eroded, leading to scepticism and disillusionment among our youth. From the onset of my tenure, I have been determined not to perpetuate the cycle of unfulfilled promises and ineffective initiatives that have contributed to this mistrust.”
“Instead, my focus has been on diligently preparing and refining a vision and strategy that the Nigerian youth can not only believe in but also rely upon, in line with the Mr. President’s Renewed Hope Agenda and in consonance with the Ministry’s performance mandate.” She added
She assured that trust can be restored between the youth and the government’s
“We can begin rebuilding trust through thoughtful planning, transparent and honest communication, and the delivery of tangible and impactful programmes. This approach is not about quick wins or surface-level engagements; it’s about laying a solid, credible foundation for a lasting relationship between the Nigerian youth and the government, one where promises made are promises kept, and initiatives launched are initiatives that genuinely make a difference.Mr. President’s vision for the youth of Nigeria is transformative, encompassing, comprehensive, education and skills development and empowerment through various initiatives, and effective engagement at all levels. Such a vision requires meticulous planning, collaboration, and strategic partnerships.”
I understand that in this era of instant communication, the expectation for frequent updates is high. However, my approach has been to prioritize substance over immediacy, ensuring that when we speak, we do so with concrete plans and tangible results.We are now at a pivotal moment where I can share the fruits of these foundational efforts. Our vision for Nigerian youth is not only ambitious but revolutionary, encompassing education, skills development, and empowerment across various sectors.
The Minister reeled out some of the transformative initiatives the ministry is proposing:The NextGen Bank,Youth Villages/ sustainable communities, Restructured and Reinvigorated Nigeria Youth Investment Fund (NYIF), NYSC Reform, launch of the Young Leaders’ Institute, Proposal on Mandatory 30% Youth Quota in Government Appointments.
“As the Minister of Youth Development, I am committed to seeing this proposal become a reality, marking a new era of youth empowerment and participation in our beloved country.” Said the Minister
She added that the initiatives represent just a glimpse of what the youth of Nigeria can expect under her tenure.
“They are immediate, actionable plans set to roll out imminently and I am here to serve, lead, and deliver on the promise of a brighter future for our youth. Your voices are heard, and your concerns are taken to heart. Together, we will embark on this journey of transformation and success.” Bio added
The Minister commended their development partners, the EU Commission, World Bank, Ford Foundation, Bank of Industry, AfDB, and the Africa Union – NEPAD and the media for their instrumental support in shaping the transformative programmes.
She further announced a new chapter in the Ministry’s communication strategy, which will offer regular updates on the initiatives, progress, and future plans through various media channels.
“We can expect timely updates, engaging infographics, and narratives showcasing our activities and achievements going forward. Your feedback is invaluable, and I encourage every Nigerian youth to join us in this journey. Our collective efforts will undoubtedly forge a brighter future for our nation.” She added
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