The Honourable Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, has urged young Nigerians to desist from irregular migration and instead take advantage of the numerous empowerment initiatives provided by the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The Minister made the call in Yola, Adamawa State, during a sensitization and awareness programme organized by the Ministry to educate young people in the Northern region on the dangers of irregular migration.
Represented by the Acting Director of Youth Migration and Climate Action, Mrs. Grace Leleh, Comrade Olawande reaffirmed that Nigerian youth remain the nation’s greatest assets and play a critical role in driving sustainable development.
“Our youths are the heartbeat of this nation. Their energy and innovation must be directed towards building Nigeria, not risking their lives in search of uncertain futures abroad,” he stated.
He emphasized that while migration through legal and regulated channels is acceptable, irregular migration exposes young Nigerians to grave dangers.
“Irregular migration exposes our youths to exploitation, organ harvesting, and even death. We must work collectively to end this dangerous trend,” the Minister warned.
Comrade Olawande encouraged young Nigerians to embrace the Ministry’s empowerment initiatives under the ‘One Youth, Two Skills’ policy, which equips them with practical, income-generating skills to build sustainable livelihoods within the country.
“Through skills training in areas such as garment production, bead-making, and waste-to-wealth initiatives, we are empowering young people to create meaningful opportunities at home,” he added.
In his remarks, the Adamawa State Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Barrister Wali Yakubu, commended the Ministry’s efforts and cautioned young people against the belief that success can only be achieved abroad. He highlighted the harsh and inhumane realities often faced by those who embark on irregular migration.
One of the participants, Ni’ima Alango, expressed appreciation to the Federal Ministry of Youth Development for organizing the sensitization programme. She noted that the session had opened her eyes to the dangers of irregular migration and renewed her confidence in the opportunities available in Nigeria.
“Before now, I believed traveling abroad was the only way to achieve success,” she said. “But after listening to the discussions today, I have learned that with the right skills and government support, we can build successful lives here in Nigeria.”
Signed
Omolara Esan
Director (Information and Public Relations)
Federal Ministry of Youth Development
