Maryam Aminu
As the year winds down, the Federal Government has unveiled an ambitious agenda for 2025, placing Nigerian youth at the forefront of its developmental priorities.
This bold initiative aims to ignite hope, foster innovation, and empower young Nigerians to catalyze national progress.
Speaking at the closing ceremony of the 7th National Council on Youth Development (NCYD) in Borno State, the Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, revealed six pivotal areas of focus.
Themed “Transforming and Repositioning the Nigerian Youth to Thrive and Catalyze Economic Development,” the event underscored the government’s unwavering commitment to youth empowerment.
Comrade Olawande emphasized the critical role of Nigerian youths, who constitute over 60% of the population, in shaping the nation’s sustainable growth.
He outlined key priority areas: Access to Capital, Job Creation, Empowerment, Skill Development, Entrepreneurship Support, and Youth Involvement in Decision-Making Processes.
“We are setting the stage for a brighter tomorrow by equipping our young people with the tools they need to succeed,” Olawande declared passionately.
To bring this vision to life, the Ministry has established transformative initiatives:
A Youth Help Desk to foster direct engagement with young people.
A Youth House in Abuja as a central hub for youth-focused activities.
A Youth Centre in every state of the federation.
A Youth Green House in all 774 local government areas to serve as innovation hubs for creativity and collaboration.
“These platforms will allow young Nigerians to share ideas, network, and find solutions to challenges unique to their communities,” the Minister said.
The Minister appealed to stakeholders state governors, commissioners, and private sector players to support the establishment of Youth Centres nationwide and align their local plans with the national youth agenda.
“Our youth need safe spaces to innovate and grow. Their empowerment is non-negotiable in unlocking their full potential,” he affirmed with resolve.
He further highlighted groundbreaking initiatives such as the Corpreneur Support Initiative and Young & Secure, aimed at enhancing the entrepreneurial and creative potential of Nigerian youths. These programs are expected to fuel an era of innovation and prosperity, ensuring the active participation of young Nigerians in nation-building.
“This renewed focus on youth development signals the Federal Government’s dedication to empowering the next generation, ensuring their ability to thrive and contribute meaningfully to the country’s economic growth,” Olawande added, leaving attendees inspired and hopeful for the future.
Speaking also, Borno State Governor Babagana Umaru Zulum, in his opening remarks, described Nigerian youths as the backbone of the nation’s economy.
His words echoed a shared sentiment of urgency and hope: “Investing in our youth is investing in our future. With 70% of Nigeria’s population under the age of 30, this demographic is an invaluable asset.”
Governor Zulum pledged his administration’s continued support through vocational training, education, and scholarship programs to equip young people with essential skills.
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