By Nafiu Toyin Abdulqadri.
Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, met with the Abuja Youth Forum Group yesterday, sparking excitement and hope among the informal youth group. The meeting, held at Utako, Abuja, brought together lotto operators, transport union workers, market men and women, and mechanics.
During the public meeting, Olawande discussed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration efforts to create a better working environment for informal youth and bridge the gap between them and the government. The minister’s message resonated with the group, who praised him for acknowledging their existence and contributions to society.
“We thank you for identifying with us,” they said. “Oftentimes, government officials don’t seem to think we exist. We are Nigerians too, and we pay taxes as well. Your coming today excites us, and we believe and hope that we continue this type of interaction.”
This meeting is part of the ministry’s efforts to engage with youth across the country, as seen in other initiatives like the upcoming National Youth Conference in February 2025, which aims to address pressing issues like youth unemployment and education.