The Federal Government has asked the youth commissioners in the 36 states of the Federation to initiate empowerment programs focused on youth in their respective states
The Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, made the call during a courtesy visit of the State Youth Commissioners forum, led by its president, Gold Adedayo, who also serves as a commissioner for youth and social development in the state of Ekiti.
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The Director, Information and Public Relations, Mrs. Omolara Esan, in a statement on Sunday said that the meeting was held at the Ministry headquarters in Abuja.
Speaking during the visit, the minister emphasized the importance of base initiatives, saying that the call is aligned with the ongoing efforts of the Federal Ministry of Youth Development to improve the participation and development of young people throughout the country.
“As someone who has benefited from local initiatives, I can say with confidence that each program that I have started since my time as a minister of state for young people has received the sponsorship of NGOs and relevant agencies.
“What you do to transform young people in your state will be a testimony of your leadership, even after leaving office,” he said.
In response, Adedayo said the visit followed a recent meeting between the minister and the forum in Lagos, during which the key action points were agreed.
He described three critical areas that required the support of the minister: “The Forum requested a dedicated space within the facilities of the Ministry in Abuja to serve as its headquarters and facilitate regular meetings.
“Facilitation of state commitments: the forum appealed to the minister to help create roads for easier collaboration and visits to several states for youth -focused initiatives.
“The forum plans to start regular meetings, starting with an upcoming session in Bayelsa.
“These are the essential construction blocks necessary to guarantee the success of our youth development programs throughout the country,” said Adedayo.
The permanent secretary of the Ministry, Mr. Olubunmi Olusanya, while welcoming the delegation, reiterated the ministry's commitment to support the forum.
He assured the commissioners that the Ministry remains ready to support all efforts oriented towards editing Nigerian young people.