Maryam Aminu
Marking International Anti-Corruption Day, the Honourable Minister of Youth Development, His Excellency Comrade Ayodele Olawande, has renewed the Federal Government’s commitment to fighting corruption by empowering young Nigerians.
Speaking during a press briefing held in collaboration with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), the Minister emphasized the transformative role of youth in shaping a corruption-free Nigeria under the theme: “Uniting with Youth Against Corruption: Shaping Tomorrow’s Integrity.”
In his address, the Minister expressed the administration’s determination to rebuild the trust that corruption has eroded among Nigeria’s youth.
He acknowledged the widespread feelings of neglect and disillusionment among young people, which have contributed to societal unrest, including the 2020 #EndSARS protests.
“Young Nigerians often feel disconnected from the government that is meant to serve them. This must change. Our administration is determined to engage with and prioritize the youth as key partners in building a better Nigeria,” the Minister stated passionately.
A significant highlight of the event was the reintroduction of the Nigerian Youth Help Desk, a pioneering initiative aimed at giving young people a direct voice in decision-making.
The Minister expressed that the platform provides avenues for reporting corruption, seeking justice, and accessing support for drug-related and mental health issues.
“The Nigerian Youth Help Desk is not just a platform; it is a testament to this administration’s commitment to listening, seeing, and valuing our youth,” the Minister added. “It is a tool for empowerment, designed to enhance accountability and foster access to justice.”
Comrade Olawande reiterated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration’s dedication to ensuring no young Nigerian feels excluded, regardless of their background. “Together with our youth, we will create a Nigeria where integrity thrives and corruption has no place.”
UNODC representative commended the Minister’s proactive leadership and his dedication to addressing youth-related issues.
Highlighting the agency’s continued partnership with the Ministry, UNODC reaffirmed its commitment to tackling corruption and other societal challenges such as drug abuse, human trafficking, cybercrime, and violent extremism.
Cheik O. Toure, speaking on behalf of the agency, applauded the Nigerian Youth Help Desk, describing it as a strategic move that aligns perfectly with this year’s Anti-Corruption Day theme.
Toure hinted at expanded collaborations, such as joint funding initiatives and the proposed National Youth Conference, which would amplify youth voices and create solutions for good governance.
“The reintroduction of this platform empowers young people as agents of accountability and good governance,” the UNODC representative noted.
“Your leadership ensures young Nigerians are equipped with the tools to protect themselves, report corruption, and actively engage in governance processes.”
The event underscored the shared resolve of the Ministry and UNODC to foster a generation of young Nigerians equipped with the knowledge, tools, and support needed to combat corruption and build a brighter future.
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