The Minister of Federal Ministry of Youth Development, Dr. Jamila Bio Ibrahim has said that the Federal Government will empower the Nigerian youth with appropriate skills and education to foster innovation, entrepreneurship, and sustainable development that will promote socio-economic progress.
She made this statement today 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’.
She stressed the need for providing Nigerian Youth with quality education, skills training and employment opportunities to make them self reliant.
The Minister explained that the youth population in Nigeria holds immense potential and opportunities for the nation. However, they face daunting challenges such as high unemployment rates, skill gaps, and limited participation in socio-economic and political spheres.
“These issues demand immediate and sustainable attention to unlock the full potential of this demographic and drive inclusive growth and development”. She added.
Ibrahim who stressed the importance of unity and collaboration said that each department, stakeholder, and partner plays pivotal roles in the success of the mission, explaining that by working together, they can harness collective expertise, resources, and passion to create a comprehensive and impactful youth development strategy.
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 fulfill 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.”
While admonishing the participants at the retreat, Minister of State for Youth Development, Mr. Ayodele Olawande stated that the only way the government can improve the lives of the youth in the nation is by being committed to empowering them, “This is crucial because, in the near future, people will inquire about the efforts made by the government to uplift the youth in the country”.
He stated that the Retreat is an opportunity for the Ministry to establish a strong foundation in order to make progress.
In his welcome address, the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Dunoma Umar Ahmed, expressed his commitment to assisting the Ministers in ensuring that policies and programmes are not only aligned with national priorities, but also fast-tracked to deliver on the Ministerial Performance Bond within the specified time frame. He emphasized that with the collective efforts of all stakeholders in the youth sector; they can deliver on the mandate and contribute to the development of the nation.
Omolara Esan
Director (Press & PR)
