Minister calls for collective approach to overcome challenges facing youth 

 

In a compelling address, the Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande,  weekend stated the need for a collective approach to effectively tackle the pressing challenges facing the youth in Nigeria.

 He made this call during a meeting with the Nigeria Youth Futures Fund (NYFF), led by Dr. Onyeche Agbiti Douglas, at his office in Abuja. 

In a press statement signed by the director of Information and Public Relations of the ministry, Omolara Esan quoted the minister as saying that there is need for  a vision for a sustainable framework that not only addresses immediate concerns but also empowers young people through skills development and entrepreneurship programmes.

“It is crucial to involve young people in leadership and community roles. We need to address the issue of informal youth being overlooked in favour of their formal counterparts.

“I urge all political and societal entities to prioritise the empowerment of young people, putting Nigeria first. I also call on international organisations, such as UNESCO and UNDP, to support efforts in creating a better future for Nigeria’s youth.

“There is a pressing need for strategic partnerships that focus on productive and meaningful outcomes instead of superficial projects. We will overcome budgetary constraints to effectively fund youth-oriented initiatives,” he stated.

Ayodele added that the meeting aims to foster collaboration among all stakeholders, including government officials, NGOs, and community leaders, to create a sustainable environment where young people can thrive.