The Minister of State for Youth Development, Mr. Ayodele Olawande, has emphasised the need for Nigerian youths to prioritise skill acquisition, especially in areas that are relevant to the demands of the 21st century labour market.
A press statement issued to Blueprint by head, press and public relations of the ministry, Mrs. Maryam Umar Yusuf quoted the minister as making the call during a youth engagement visit to Borno state, stressing that the youths could only contribute to the development of the country when they possess skills that enhance their productivity as citizens.
Olawande, who also paid a courtesy visit on the state governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum on his arrival, disclosed that he was in the state to interact with youths on the plans of the ministry so as to solicit their inputs.
During the interaction that lasted for over three hours with youths, drawn from diverse youth and student organisations in the state, including young entrepreneurs, farmers, and those from the informal sectors, the minister said: “I believe that we cannot sit back in Abuja and assume that we know what you want. Yes, we have our own plans and programmes, but we also want to listen to your demands based on your peculiar experiences and local realities.
“This would help us to target our interventions to address specific challenges you may have.”
In response to the plans presented by the minister, the youths offered suggestions on the implementation modalities as well as new ideas for consideration.
Prior to his arrival at the youth engagement session, the minister had earlier visited one of the internally displaced persons (IDPs) camps in the state to solidarise with inhabitants where he donated about one thousand, five hundred school bags, lunch packs and some other items to youths in the camp on behalf of the federal government.
He also visited some injured soldiers at the military hospital in Maimalari barracks, headquarters of 7 Division of Nigerian Army, where he prayed for the recuperating soldiers.
Theatre Commander Operation Hadin Kai, Major General G.U Chibuisi appreciated the Minister for identifying with them at the command, saying the minister’s visit would boost the morale of the troop.