Maryam Aminu
In a bold and transformative step towards combating corruption and addressing the social challenges faced by young Nigerians, the Federal Government has inaugurated the Nigerian Youth Help Desk.
This initiative aims to bridge the gap between youth and the support systems they urgently need, heralding a new era of proactive engagement in shaping Nigeria’s future.
Speaking at the United Nations House in Abuja during the 2024 International Anti-Corruption Day, themed “Uniting with the Youth Against Corruption: Shaping Tomorrow’s Integrity,” the Honourable Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, emphasized the critical need for this intervention.
He highlighted the profound impact of economic hardship, weak institutional structures, and the rising tide of drug abuse on young Nigerians, particularly those aged 25 to 39.
“Economic hardship and lack of opportunities often push our young people toward crime, further fueling mistrust in the system,” Olawande stated.
“Behind these statistics are countless stories of addiction, cybercrime, human trafficking, and stigma that isolate our youth. This is why the government is taking decisive steps to reverse the trend.”
He further stressed the untapped potential of young Nigerians, describing them as “natural innovators” who are leveraging technologies like blockchain and artificial intelligence to increase transparency and fight corruption.
Olawande reiterated the government’s commitment to empowering youth as agents of change, transforming challenges into opportunities for national growth.
Cheikh Toure, Country Representative of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), commended the initiative and stressed the importance of listening to young voices.
“The progress of any government is reflected in its citizens’ experiences, particularly the youth. It’s time to involve them in decisions shaping their future,” Toure remarked, highlighting the innovative and ethical leadership that youth can bring to the fight against corruption.
Echoing these sentiments, Mr. Ademola Bakare, a representative of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), affirmed the agency’s support for youth-driven solutions.
“We are ready to support your freedom of expression, especially on social media, to combat these social issues. Engagement, not protest, is the key to progress,” Bakare emphasized.
The Nigerian Youth Help Desk is a landmark initiative that underscores the Federal Government’s commitment to building a more inclusive, transparent, and accountable society.
By empowering young Nigerians with resources and platforms to address corruption and social challenges, the government aims to foster integrity, innovation, and hope for a brighter future.
Africa Security Investigation News 