Maryam Aminu
In a significant move to bolster youth engagement and address pressing challenges faced by young Nigerians, the Federal Government, through the Ministry of Youth Development, has pledged a robust collaboration with the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) Foundation.
The partnership, aimed at providing meaningful opportunities to Nigeria’s youth, is designed to deter them from engaging in negative behaviors by offering support in key sectors such as agriculture, arts and crafts, and information and communication technology (ICT).
The Minister of State for Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, made this announcement during a courtesy visit by the NYSC Foundation’s Executive Secretary, Barr. Ventim Bako, at his office in Abuja.
The Minister emphasized the need for a nationwide initiative, envisioning the foundation’s presence in all 774 local government areas of the country.
“If we can have a foundation in every local government area, it will go a long way in keeping our youth productively engaged, steering them away from ill behavior,” Olawande stated.
Highlighting the importance of the collaboration, Olawande remarked, “We cannot do this alone. That’s why we’re partnering with the NYSC Foundation to engage our youth in critical sectors. This collaboration is essential if we are to truly make a difference.”
He underscored the urgency of providing young Nigerians with opportunities, asserting that the future of the nation depends on its youth.
In a personal reflection, the Minister expressed gratitude, noting that the 17th of September, 2024, marked the anniversary of his appointment as Minister of State for Youth Development under President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
He vowed to serve with passion and commitment, aiming to leave behind a legacy that speaks for itself.
Olawande also revealed that the bill proposing the establishment of an “NYSC Trust Fund” had passed its first reading in the National Assembly and is now awaiting a second reading in the Senate. If enacted, this trust fund would further support youth initiatives across the country.
Earlier , Barr. Ventim Bako reiterated the foundation’s mission to unify and empower former and current NYSC members.
He praised the government for its continued support of the NYSC scheme and expressed optimism about the upcoming collaboration, stating,
“We are committed to working with the Ministry to build capacity and encourage entrepreneurial skills among Nigerian youth, ensuring their self-reliance and contributing to national development.”
The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Olubunmi Olusanya, also voiced his support for the partnership, reaffirming the Ministry’s commitment to working with organizations dedicated to the advancement of Nigerian youth.
This partnership between the Federal Government and the NYSC Foundation signals a renewed focus on youth development, one that holds promise for the future of Nigeria’s young population.
As both parties move forward, the nation eagerly awaits the tangible outcomes of this collaboration.
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