Youth and Interior Ministries Join Forces to Tackle Youth Unemployment in Nigeria

Maryam Aminu

In a strategic move to address the growing challenge of youth unemployment, the Federal Ministry of Youth Development has announced a comprehensive collaboration with the Ministry of Interior.

This initiative, unveiled during a courtesy visit by the Minister of Youth Development, Dr. Jamila Bio Ibrahim, to the Minister of Interior, Hon. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, aims to leverage shared resources and expertise to create sustainable employment opportunities for young Nigerians.

Dr. Ibrahim highlighted that the Federal Executive Council (FEC) has recently approved an expansion of the Youth Investment Fund from N75 billion to N110 billion. This increase is intended to support the Presidential Initiatives on Youth Enterprise Clusters, which will focus on key sectors such as agriculture, digital economy, blue economy, creative economy, extractive economy (mining), and the oil and gas sector.

“Our goal is to establish economic clusters driven by young people,” Dr. Ibrahim said. “This approach is part of our concerted efforts towards achieving a $3 trillion economy, as envisioned by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. By integrating young people into these vital sectors, we aim to significantly contribute to the nation’s economic growth.”

Dr. Ibrahim proposed a partnership with the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) to safeguard these economic clusters, which are viewed as pivotal assets for national prosperity. She emphasized the need for specialized recruitment and training to monitor and protect these clusters, and called for the NSCDC’s expertise in profiling and assessing the young individuals involved.

“We believe the NSCDC’s recommendations will be crucial in fortifying these assets, which have the potential to greatly enhance our economy,” she added. “

“Furthermore, we plan to establish the Young Marshal Volunteers within agencies under the Ministry of Interior to provide mentorship and instill values of service among young people, addressing a critical gap in societal development.”

Hon. Tunji-Ojo affirmed the Ministry of Interior’s commitment to this collaboration, highlighting ongoing efforts to restructure correctional centers to meet international standards. These measures include facility upgrades and improved operational processes to alleviate overcrowding and enhance the rehabilitation environment.

This collaboration marks a significant step towards addressing youth unemployment in Nigeria by fostering inter-ministerial cooperation and harnessing the potential of young Nigerians to drive economic growth and innovation.

Nigeria to Establish Youth Health Advisory Team and Task Force to Address Social Challenges

Maryam Aminu

The Federal Government of Nigeria is set to establish a youth health advisory team and task force aimed at tackling health and social challenges affecting young people.

This initiative is a collaboration between the Ministry of Youth Development and the Federal Ministry of Health.

Dr. Jamila Bio Ibrahim, the Minister of Youth Development, announced the initiative during a meeting with the Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Muhammad Ali Pate, in Abuja.

Dr. Ibrahim highlighted the importance of recognizing the unique challenges faced by Nigeria’s youth, who make up over 70% of the country’s population.

These challenges include mental health issues, limited access to healthcare, drug abuse, and unemployment.

“It is essential for the government at all levels to develop a comprehensive and targeted health policy specifically designed to address these issues and ensure the well-being of the youth population,” Dr. Ibrahim stated.

The youth health advisory team and task force will be composed of highly skilled young Nigerian health professionals. A joint committee from both ministries will oversee the collaboration to ensure its effectiveness.

She added that the initiative is part of a broader public health strategy that includes strengthening national health institutions, expanding vaccine and diagnostic manufacturing, increasing domestic health investment, and enhancing the public health workforce.

Dr. Ibrahim also mentioned Nigeria’s leadership in establishing the Youth Centre for Disease Control in Africa, a proposal made during the 2023 International Youth Conference on Public Health in Zambia, which has now come to fruition in Nigeria.

Dr. Pate expressed strong support for the collaboration, emphasizing the commitment of the Ministry of Health to work closely with the Ministry of Youth Development and other key stakeholders, including the Nigeria Center for Disease Control (NCDC). The goal is to build a resilient health institution that prioritizes youth health strategies in Nigeria.

Defence minister of state wishes armed forces and Nigerians a blissful Eid-el-Kabir

By Emmanuel Daudu

Henshaw Ogubike Mnipr FCAi Fsca Fcpe
(Director Information and Public Relations)
The Honourable Minister of State for Defence, H.E. Dr. Bello Muhammed Matawalle, MON, has extended his warmest wishes to the Armed Forces of Nigeria and all Nigerians on the occasion of Eid-el-Kabir.

According to a press release signed on the 16th of June, 2024 by Henshaw Ogubike Mnipr FCAi Fsca Fcpe (Director Information and Public Relations), Dr. Matawalle prayed for Allah’s favour and mercy upon the Armed Forces, their families, and Nigerians, saying: “May Allah’s limitless favour be upon us all, and may His mercy be upon all Muslims and non-Muslims worldwide.”

The Minister commended the Armed Forces for their gallant efforts in ensuring the country’s security, acknowledging their sacrifices and dedication. He expressed appreciation for their efforts towards a secured Nigeria, praying that Allah rewards their service.

Dr. Matawalle also extended special greetings to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, Nigerians, and the Armed Forces, wishing that the celebration brings everyone closer to Allah.

Eid-el-Kabir: Defence minister wishes Nigerians a peaceful celebration

By Emmanuel Daudu

The Honourable Minister of Defence, H.E. Mohammed Badaru Abubakar CON, mni, has extended his warmest wishes to Nigerians for a hitch-free Eid-el-Kabir celebration.

According to a press release signed on the 16th june, 2024 by Henshaw Ogubike Mnipr FCAi Fsca Fcpe Director (Information and Public Relations), the Minister prayed for Allah’s blessings to shower upon President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, Muslim faithful, the gallant Armed Forces of Nigeria, and the nation as a whole.

He commended the collective efforts of the Armed Forces and Nigerians towards achieving a safer and more secure Nigeria.

The Minister urged Nigerians to draw inspiration from the sacred occasion, embracing its lessons and rewards as a guiding force for unity, compassion, righteousness, and national cohesion.

“May Almighty Allah continue to bless our leaders, households, members of the Armed Forces, and our dear country,” he prayed.

Defence minister urges youth council to join fight against oil theft

By Emmanuel Daudu

The Honourable Minister of Defence, H.E. Mohammed Badaru Abubakar CON, mni, has called on the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) to support the Federal Government efforts in combating oil theft and related crimes.

According to a press release signed on the 13th of june, 2024 by Henshaw Ogubike Mnipr FCAi Fsca Fcpe Director ( Information and Public Relations), receiving a delegation from NYCN, led by its President, Ambassador Sukubo Sara-Igbe Sukubo, at Ship House, Abuja, the Minister emphasized the critical role of youth engagement in national development and security. “Youth involvement is crucial in our efforts to combat oil theft and ensure the security of our resources,” he stated.

The meeting aimed to explore collaborative efforts to curb rampant oil theft and bunkering in the Niger-Delta region.

The Minister highlighted the importance of partnerships in addressing security challenges, stating, “Together, we can develop innovative solutions to tackle oil theft and other security issues affecting our nation.”

Ambassador Sukubo affirmed the Youth Council’s commitment to supporting the Ministry’s initiatives, pledging to “work hand-in-hand with the Ministry of Defence to protect our national assets and promote peace in the Niger-Delta region.”

The partnership will boost and enhance surveillance and monitoring of oil facilities, provide intelligence on illegal oil bunkering and theft, support military operations in the region, engage in community outreach and awareness programs and foster collaboration with local stakeholders.

World Sustainable Development Goals Organization Appoints Ngodu Mamsy as South Africa’s Country Representative

By Salem Peace

World Sustainable Development Goals Organization has appointed Her Excellency Dr. Ngodu Solange Mamsy as South Africa’s Country Representative

The International Non-Governmental Organization, World Sustainable Development Goals Organization, worldsdgs.org, which operates across the entire UN member nations saddled with the responsibilities of implementing the global goals, 17 SDGs, and curbing human trafficking has appointed a South African, H.E. Dr. Ngodu Solange Mamsy to head the South Africa affairs stating that all targets of the 17 SDGs are a must achieve stressing on the need for an inclusive approach to making the world a better place.

According to the letter of appointment dated 22nd May 2024, signed by the Global Chairman, Board of Trustees, World Sustainable Development Goals Organization, Chief Samson Adeosun, the Global Secretary-General, Advisory Council, H.E. Wajdi Aref Moukarim and the Global Founder, H.E. Emmanuel Huleji Daudu urged H. E. Dr. Ngodu Solange Mamsy to take her new office seriously to ensure that her quarter is contributed in impacting positively on lives within her scope of duty in South Africa.

Until her appointment, she was an international gender activist with many organisations under her watch as a founder in South Africa.

The SDGs are a set of global goals adopted by all United Nations Member States in 2015. They aim to address various social, economic, and environmental challenges faced by the world, including poverty, inequality, climate change, and biodiversity loss.

Dr. Ngodu Solange Mamsy’s role as the South Africa Country Representative will involve raising awareness about the SDGs, promoting their implementation, and fostering partnerships between different stakeholders, including the government, civil society organizations, politicians, business tycoons and the private sector.

Similarly, Dr Ngodu Solange Mamsy will be expected to work closely with the South African government, South Africa’s United Nations body, and all of its agencies to align national policies and strategies with the SDGs. This collaboration will ensure that South Africa progresses towards sustainable development by integrating the goals into national agendas and decision-making processes.

By assuming this position, Her Excellency Dr. Ngodu Solange Mamsy has a significant responsibility to contribute to the achievement of sustainable development in South Africa. The appointment reflects her expertise and dedication to the field, and it is hoped that her efforts, with the support of various stakeholders, will lead to positive and transformative change in the country.

The letter, giving details on the aims and objectives of the organization, disclosed that the international NGO is aimed at promoting development and economic goals in all the UN member nations.
“To work within the scope of the I 7goals of Sustainable Development Goals within the member nations of UN which are: end poverty, end hunger, ensure healthy lives and promote well-being, ensure quality education, achieve gender equality, ensure sustainable water and sanitation, ensure reliable energy, promote economic growth, build resilient infrastructure, foster innovative and infrastructure, reduce inequality within and among countries, ensure sustainable consumption and production pattern, combat climate change, conserved and sustainable use of oceans, seas, marine resources for sustainable development.
“To empower youths globally with sustainable skill: focusing on youth development, gender and environmental sustainability.

“To support the adopted global goals (Sustainable Development Goals) to end poverty, protect the plant, and ensure prosperity for all across all UN member nations

” To inspire and educate youths and women to actively contribute to improving local and global issues affecting development on education, sustainability, health, environment and peacebuilding.

“To encourage purposeful leadership for the development of the people and society.

“To foster global development through integrated approach towards the Challenges facing development globally: good health, food, shelter, poverty alleviation, quality education, environment, peacebuilding, child abuse and human trafficking, youth and women empowerment and mentoring”.

While congratulating Dr. Ngodu Solange Mamsy on her new appointment, the signatories to the 23 pages of the appointment letter have this to say, “Congratulations on your appointment. This is indeed a remarkable achievement and a testament to your hard work, dedication, and expertise in the field of sustainable development.

“Your new role as the country Representative carries immense responsibility, as you will be at the forefront of promoting and advocating for the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals in South Africa. With your wealth of knowledge and experience, we have no doubt that you will excel in this position and make significant contributions towards addressing the pressing environmental, social, and economic challenges facing the country.

“Your appointment serves as an inspiration to all of us who believe in the urgency and importance of sustainable development. Your passion and commitment to creating a more sustainable and equitable future will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on South Africa and its people.

“We are confident that you will use your leadership skills to effectively engage with stakeholders, collaborate with government agencies, and mobilize resources towards sustainable development initiatives. Your efforts will further strengthen South Africa’s commitment to the global sustainable development agenda and undoubtedly bring about positive change in the lives of its citizens.

“Once again, congratulations on this well-deserved appointment. May this new role be a rewarding and fulfilling journey for you, and may you continue to be a beacon of inspiration for others. Your contribution towards sustainable development in South Africa is invaluable, and we are excited to see the positive impact you will bring.”

NiMet Ramps Up Staff Capacity Development

The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) is continuing with the development of the skills of its staff, a renewed move by the management. The agency is currently conducting a general training on performance management for staff members within Grade Levels 4 – 7 in the South-South, South-East, South West and North West zones of the country. Information made available to the press by the Director of Human Resources at the agency, Dr Nasiru Sule, shows that staff members from the mentioned zones are being trained in Kano, Ibadan and Enugu. He said that senior staff training had earlier been conducted and continues to receive management’s attention. The junior staff training will last from Thursday, 13th June to Saturday, 15th June, 2024.

“By investing in the professional growth of our staff, we aim to Improve operational efficiency and effectiveness, enhance service delivery and client satisfaction, foster a culture of innovation and adaptability, and ensure compliance with the latest industry standards and best practices”, Dr. Sule said.

“What we do at NiMet must always align to what the Tinubu government is trying to achieve, linking it with the Aviation sector roadmap of Festus Keyamo, SAN, the Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development. Starting with Tinubu government’s 8-point agenda for economic recovery; food security; poverty eradication; growth, job creation; access to capital; inclusion; rule of law; and fighting corruption, down to the performance bond the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, SAN, signed with Aviation Agencies Heads and their Directors in February 2024. Development of human capacity is a key deliverable in the performance bond. As a scientific agency, the Director-General and Chief Executive Officer of NiMet, Professor Charles Anosike always ensures that both management and staff are aligned to these objectives”., Dr. Nasiru Sani concluded.

PHOTO

Dr. Nasiru Sani, Director Of Human Resources Management and Administration (DHRM), NiMet.

Over One Million Nigerian Youths to Benefit from Major Skills Development Program- Youth Minister

Maryam Aminu

Over one million young Nigerians are set to gain from the National Youth Skills Program (NYSP), an initiative announced by Dr. Jamila Bio Ibrahim, Minister of Youth Development.

This program aims to equip youths with essential skills for today’s economy.

Dr. Ibrahim made this disclosure on Tuesday at Ladi Kwali Hall, Abuja Continental Hotel during the 25th Nigeria Democracy Day Anniversary Youth Program celebrated under the theme “25 Years of Enduring Democracy: Prospects for the Future.”

The event highlighted key initiatives for youth empowerment.

The Minister revealed that the Ministry of Youth Development is actively working on legislative proposals for the National Assembly. These include a 30% youth quota, restructuring the Citizenship and Leadership Training Centre (CLTC), and establishing the National Youth Fund (NYF).

“These legislative actions will solidify the Federal Government’s commitment to youth empowerment and ensure sustainable development,” said Dr. Ibrahim.

The restructured Nigerian Youth Investment Fund (NYIF) will begin accepting applications from June 30, 2024. This fund aims to streamline processes to help young entrepreneurs access necessary funds for innovation and job creation.

She disclosed that the NYSP and reforms to the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) will launch on July 30, 2024. These reforms will integrate skill development and entrepreneurship into the service year, enhancing its economic impact for graduates.

Additionally, the Youth Development Bank, launching on August 30, 2024, will offer financial services tailored to youth-led ventures, fostering innovation and business growth.

“By the same date, the Young Leaders’ Institute will also be inaugurated to develop future Nigerian leaders with essential skills, knowledge, and networks.The future of Nigeria is in your hands,” Dr. Ibrahim stated.

She emphasized the strategic and diligent implementation of these initiatives aimed at youth empowerment.

R-L: Hon. Minister of Youth Development Dr. Jamila Bio Ibrahim, Alh. Baba Gana Kingibe, Former Secretary to the Goverment of the Federation and Dr. Dunoma Umar Ahmed, Permanent Secretary Federal Ministry of Youth Development at the Youth Program marking the 25th anniversary of Democracy in Nigeria . Is

Ambassador Baba Gana Kingibe, the event’s special guest and former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, praised the Minister’s forward-thinking initiatives.

He highlighted the enthusiasm and readiness of the younger generation to adopt modern technology and lead.

Representing the Minister of State for Youth Development, Mr. Ayodele Olawande, Dr. Dunoma Ahmed Umar reiterated the Federal Government’s commitment to the successful implementation of these youth development programs.

He emphasized their potential to bring significant positive changes to the lives and prospects of Nigerian youth.

Dr. Dunoma Umar Ahmed, Permanent Secretary Federal Ministry of Youth Development .

DG/CEO Of NiMet Anosike Meets With Vaisala And MFI Officials, Discusses Business Opportunities

On the sideline of the ongoing Seventy-Eight (78th) Session of the World Meteorological Organisation (WMO) Executive Council (EC), the Director General/CEO of Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet), and Permanent Representative of Nigeria with WMO, Prof. Charles Anosike on Tuesday, 11th June, 2024, held a
tripartite meeting with Vaisala of Finland representatives, and Meteo France International representatives led by Chairman Patrick Benichou,
to explore opportunities to execute a ‘Design, Build, Operate’ business model in addressing capacity gaps in weather and climate observation, forecasting and dissemination of Early Warning information that is human-centered in Nigeria.

Recognising the critical importance of Nigeria within the sub-region (especially West Africa) in meeting the increasing demand for impact-based, multi-hazard early warnings for climate mitigation and adaptation, Vaisala and MFI have teamed up to design a suite of solutions for NiMet. The prospect of the relationship is very high, drawing on the strengths/expertise of both companies in observation and forecasting solutions with years of experience across the globe including Africa (e.g. Angola, Ethiopia).

Targeted areas and sectors include aviation, agriculture, hydrometeorology, marine, disaster risk reduction, management etc.
Benefits of this potential opportunity include capacity and technology transfer, sustainable financing mechanism, post-installation supports, change management etc.

Speaking Prof. Anosike emphasised the need to transcend technical monitoring and invest in building community capacity to respond and improve the socio-economic lives of Nigerians. “We must work towards achieving a human centered early warning system,” he said.

FG to curb operational costs on NRC’s locomotives with dual-retrofit of engines

By Emmanuel Daudu

As part of efforts by the Federal Government to curb operational costs amidst other benefits, the government is at an advanced levels on the retrofitting of the Nigerian Railway Corporation’s (NRC’s) locomotives to dual-retrofit engines.

The Minister of Transportation, Sen. Said Alkali,  made the disclosure during an on-the-ground visit to the NRC’s locomotive workshop, Idu  to appraise the retrofitting exercise in Abuja.

According to a press release Report by Gift Osima CIO (Press & PR), Chinyere M. Okere
ACIO (Press & PRI) and Desmond Adyo
SIO (Press and PR) and signed by Muhammad Tahir Zakari AD (Press & PR)
For: Director, Press & PR,
Alkali explained that the process which started in the last one month, was currently at an advanced stage, adding that if successful, it will bring down the cost of maintenance to about 60 to 70 percent and  curtail  carbon emissions, given the fact that once the locomotive moves to gas, there won’t be gas emissions.

Speaking on behalf of the Federal Government, Alkali said the retrofitting will enable the engine work on a dual fuel, saying Nigeria is the first in African Continent, to retrofit locomotive from diesel to gas. ” The engine is going to work 30 percent on diesel, and 70 percent on gas”.

“At the time you want to start the locomotive, you use diesel. But when you have done the starting, it will switch over to gas and keep moving”. Alkali stated.

“We started in the last one month. We have come to see where the process is so far, and interface with the engineers.The process is already at an advanced stage and we are going to test-run the engine tomorrow and this will determine when the system will be fully deployed on the commercial routes.

Speaking further, the Minister revealed that the process will be beginning with the Abuja-Kaduna rail corridor, given that the workshop for the retrofitting is in Abuja. Thereafter,  they will  move to all other rail corridors.

Recall that following a proposal by De-Sadel consortium to the Ministry on its ability to retrofit diesel engines to LNG/CNG models, the Minister directed the constitution of a technical evaluation Committee and this is the status of that process thus far.