By Maryam Aminu
The Youth Help Desk of the Federal Ministry of Youth Development has won the 2026 Civil Service Excellence Award for outstanding service delivery, after handling more than 5,000 citizen requests and resolving over 4,100 cases since its establishment.
The award, presented by the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation (OHCSF) on August 15, 2026, recognised the Help Desk for its responsive, customer-focused, accountable and innovative approach to public service delivery.
The Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Youth Development, Dr. Maryam Ismaila Keshinro, received the award on behalf of the Honourable Minister, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, and the Ministry.
Established in 2024 in alignment with SERVICOM standards, the Youth Help Desk is a flagship initiative of the Honourable Minister of Youth Development designed to bridge the gap between government and Nigerian youths.
The platform provides young Nigerians with an accessible channel to obtain information, seek assistance, lodge complaints and receive timely redress.
The Ministry said the more than 5,000 requests handled and over 4,100 cases resolved by the Help Desk demonstrate its commitment to responsive and citizen-centred governance.
Speaking after receiving the award, Dr. Keshinro expressed delight over the recognition, describing it as a testament to the dedication and professionalism of the Ministry’s workforce.
She said the award also demonstrated how effective policy implementation could translate into tangible and positive outcomes when government initiatives were designed to directly address citizens’ needs and concerns.
“I am delighted to receive this award on behalf of the Honourable Minister and the Federal Ministry of Youth Development. It is a significant recognition of the dedication and commitment of our officers and the impact of the Youth Help Desk in providing responsive and citizen-centred services,” she said.
Dr. Keshinro said the recognition would further motivate the Ministry to strengthen the Help Desk and sustain innovative approaches to service delivery.
“This award is not only an honour but also a responsibility to do more. We will continue to improve our systems, listen to our citizens and ensure that Nigerian youths receive efficient, accessible and responsive government services,” she added.
The OHCSF commended the Youth Help Desk for “setting a benchmark for excellent performance and a legacy of transformative impact.”
The recognition comes as the Ministry continues to position the Help Desk as a key platform for improving communication between government and Nigerian youths and ensuring that their concerns receive appropriate attention and redress.
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