Minister Urges Media to Spotlight Positive Youth Development Efforts

Maryam Aminu

In a stirring call to action during a press conference in Abuja on Monday, the Honourable Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, challenged the media to become champions of Nigeria’s youth renaissance.

He highlighted the administration’s groundbreaking initiatives to empower young Nigerians, urging journalists to showcase the stories that inspire hope and drive progress.

Olawande, emphasized the vital role of the youth in shaping Nigeria’s future.

He called on the media to actively showcase the ministry’s strides toward empowering young Nigerians, underscoring the unprecedented commitment of the current administration to youth-focused initiatives.

“For the first time since 1999, we have a youth minister dedicated to advocating for young people. The future of Nigeria lies with us, and the progress of this country rests squarely on the shoulders of our youth,” Olawande said.

The minister highlighted the inclusiveness of the Ministry of Youth Development, urging Nigerians to unite beyond their differences for the nation’s betterment.

“We are working as a team. Let us put our diversity aside and focus on turning challenges into opportunities,” he said.

Acknowledging the hurdles faced by young Nigerians, Olawande emphasized the need for collective action. “Enough of just talking this is the time for action. We are ready to make things happen and showcase the brilliance and productivity of our youth. Together, we can achieve a positive transformation,” he assured.

Olawande unveiled a bold initiative to transform the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) orientation camps into skill-acquisition hubs. “We want every corps member to leave orientation camp equipped with employable skills. These camps will become centers where young Nigerians can develop the expertise they need to thrive in the workforce,” he declared.

The minister further announced plans to send a memo to President Bola Tinubu mandating government agencies and parastatals to accept corps members for their mandatory service.

This move aims to curb the rejection of corps members and provide equal opportunities for all.

“Before now, corps members faced unnecessary barriers to being posted to certain organizations. That will no longer be the case. Everyone deserves the chance to gain real-world experience and apply what they have studied,” Olawande emphasized.

The minister also highlighted the need for immediate action and practical solutions to Nigeria’s challenges.

“Enough of road maps it’s time to hit the road and implement these plans. We need to focus on solutions that work, not just discussions,” he said.

He pointed to several areas where the ministry is actively driving youth development, including agriculture, sports, entertainment, and ICT.

“We are building a future where young Nigerians are at the forefront of innovation, creativity, and national progress,” Olawande said.

In a heartfelt appeal, the minister urged journalists to leverage their position as the voice of the people to amplify the ministry’s efforts.

“The media has a critical role in highlighting our initiatives and ensuring that Nigerians are aware of the positive work being done for our youth. Let’s use this platform to inspire action and hope,” he said.

Olawande commended President Tinubu’s unwavering support for youth-focused policies, describing it as a step toward a more prosperous and inclusive Nigeria.

He called on all stakeholders to rally behind the administration’s agenda to ensure young Nigerians have access to opportunities for a better life.

The minister’s address reflects a renewed commitment to action, inclusivity, and results-driven policies.

With the Ministry of Youth Development rolling out transformative initiatives, the spotlight now turns to the media and stakeholders to bring these efforts to the forefront.

“The progress of Nigeria depends on the success of its youth. Together, we can create a nation where every young person has the tools, opportunities, and support to succeed,” Olawande concluded.

As the ministry takes bold steps toward empowering young Nigerians, the stage is set for a collaborative effort to transform vision into reality. The call to action is clear now is the time to build a brighter future for Nigeria.