Maryam Aminu
The Federal Government has signed a groundbreaking Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Gender Mobile Initiative aimed at addressing youth mental health, safety, and capacity development across Nigeria.
The agreement, which marks a significant step forward in youth-focused policy implementation, will drive joint efforts in gender-based violence prevention, youth engagement, psycho-social support, and institutional capacity building.
Speaking at the MoU signing in Abuja, the Honourable Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr. Olubunmi Olusanya, described the initiative as timely. He noted its alignment with the recent approval by the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation for the establishment of two new departments dedicated to youth mental health.
“Everything cannot be centered on youth employment and empowerment alone. Mental health is paramount. When our youth are psychologically sound, they can thrive in other areas,” Olusanya stated.
He assured that the Ministry will develop a comprehensive policy and framework to support the effective operation of the new departments, in collaboration with Gender Mobile Initiative, to ensure full implementation of the MoU.
“Every content of the agreement will be implemented in the interest of Nigerian youth because they are the future leaders that will carry the nation forward,” he added.
In her remarks, Barrister Omowumi Ogunrotimi, Executive Director of Gender Mobile Initiative, highlighted the importance of giving youth a voice.
“This partnership offers a real opportunity to amplify the voices of young people, especially those whose experiences have been marginalized due to stigma and structural barriers,” Ogunrotimi said. “We believe that the safety, agency, and leadership of young people are non-negotiable pillars for national transformation.”
Director of Education and Youth Development at the Ministry, Mr. Kabiru Mohammed, in his welcome address, reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to the collaboration, noting it will significantly enhance the wellbeing of Nigerian youth and foster national development.
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