The Honourable Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, has reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to practical and innovative solutions that deliver real impact in the lives of young Nigerians.
Speaking at the signing ceremony of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), led by its Director-General, Dr. Emomotimi Agama, the Minister emphasized that lasting legacies are built through action and collaboration, not bureaucracy.
“This initiative is about breaking barriers and opening doors,” Olawande said. “For too long, the capital market has been seen as a space reserved for the wealthy. Today, we are saying clearly that Nigerian youth deserve access too. We want to empower them not just to seek jobs, but to create them, to become entrepreneurs, investors, and employers of labour.”
He highlighted the Nigerian Youth Academy (NIYA) as a central pillar of this vision, designed to provide accessible financial education and practical skills to young people across the country, regardless of background or location. The Minister also stressed the importance of strong collaboration between government and private sector partners to ensure no youth is left behind:
“Our goal is to raise a generation of financially savvy, empowered young Nigerians who will shape the future prosperity of this nation. With partners like the SEC, we are proving that it is possible.”
Comrade Olawande expressed appreciation to the SEC for its leadership and urged other stakeholders to join in building pathways of opportunity for Nigerian youth:
“This is about the future of our country. Together, we can ensure that every young Nigerian has the tools, knowledge, and opportunities to thrive.”
In his remarks, Dr. Emomotimi Agama, Director-General of the SEC, highlighted the importance of empowering youth through strategic partnerships and financial innovation. He commended the Honourable Minister for his youthful, relatable, and action-oriented leadership, noting his ability to break bureaucratic barriers and implement impactful solutions.
Dr. Agama reaffirmed the SEC’s commitment to working with the Ministry to provide access to funding, financial education, and investment opportunities. He described the partnership as the start of a meaningful legacy, with programs designed to empower young Nigerians from all backgrounds, ensuring sustainable socio-economic impact and long-term national prosperity.
Signed
Omolara Esan
Director, Information & Public Relations
Federal Ministry of Youth Development
