By Nafiu Toyin Abdulqadri.
In his keynote address at the 7th National Council on Youth Development in Maiduguri, Borno State, Honourable Minister for Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, emphasized the importance of empowering Nigerian youth to drive the country’s economic development, social progress, and national transformation.
Olawande outlined his ministry’s plan for 2025, focusing on six key strategic areas: empowerment, skill development, access to capital, job creation, entrepreneurship support, and co-opting youth into the decision-making process.
Olawande welcomed dignitaries, including the Executive Governor of Borno State, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, and representatives of youth organizations, to the council meeting. He expressed gratitude to the government and people of Borno State for hosting the event, despite recent flooding challenges.
The minister highlighted the theme of the council, “Transforming and Repositioning the Nigerian Youth to thrive and Catalyse Economic Development,” emphasizing that Nigeria’s potential for sustainable growth is directly linked to the empowerment and transformation of its youth, who make up over 60% of the population.
Olawande outlined his ministry’s initiatives, including the Nigerian Youth Academy (NiYA), YOUTH HELP DESK, and the establishment of YOUTH HOUSE, YOUTH CENTRE, and YOUTH GREEN HOUSE across the country. These initiatives aim to provide a platform for interaction, engagement, and skill development among young people.
The minister appealed to governors and ministers to work together to achieve the delivery of youth centers and align state-level youth development plans with the national agenda. He emphasized the need to empower, support, and protect Nigerian youth to unlock their full potential.
He urged council members to join him in embracing innovative solutions and collaborative approaches to empower Nigerian youth. He expressed appreciation to everyone involved in organizing the council meeting and assured that his ministry remains committed to working with stakeholders to achieve the meeting’s outcomes.