The Minister of the Federal Ministry of Youth Development, Dr Jamila Bio Ibrahim, has revealed that the Federal Government is poised to provide the Nigerian youths with the necessary training and education to support innovation, entrepreneurship, and sustainable development, all of which will advance socio-economic development.
She made this statement in Abuja at the opening ceremony of the ministry’s Management Retreat on Presidential Priorities and Deliverables with the theme: ‘Achieving the Eight Presidential Priorities and Deliverables’.
The minister emphasised that Nigeria’s youth population represents enormous potential and opportunity for the country.
However, they confront significant hurdles such as high unemployment rates, skill disparities, and limited engagement in socioeconomic and political sectors, according to her.
“These issues demand immediate and sustainable attention to unlock the full potential of this demographic and drive inclusive growth and development” ” she added.
According to the Minister, “The ministry is at the forefront of a pivotal mission at this retreat to formulate, implement, monitor, and evaluate youth development policies and programmes that will deliver our desired outcomes and fulfil our mission.
“Our work aligns with the national objectives and is crucial in ensuring that our youth are not only prepared to face the future but are also equipped to thrive in the socio-political and economic development of our nation.”
Meanwhile, the federal government has introduced the Nigerian “Youth Helpdesk”, a platform that serves as a centralised hub to efficiently manage and resolve complaints from youths regarding the conduct of Police officers and other law enforcement agents in the country.
At the launch of the initiative labelled “Young and Secure”, the Minister of State for Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, explained that the move would create a database for strategic decision-making and policy direction to foster an enabling environment for youths to feel safe and secure.
The initiative is a joint effort between the Ministry of Police Affairs and the Ministry of Youth Development.