As 2024 draws to a close, the Federal Government has unveiled its strategic focus for Nigerian youths in 2025, prioritizing the provision of access to capital and job creation.
Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, who made this known during the closing ceremony of the 7th National Council on Youth Development (NCYD) held in Borno State, pointed out six critical areas of focus in the coming year aimed at empowering and transforming the nation’s young population.
Themed “Transforming and Repositioning the Nigerian Youth to Thrive and Catalyze Economic Development,” the event highlighted the government’s commitment to youth development.
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This is just as Nigeria was honored by the World Future Council (WFC) with the prestigious Vision Award at the 2024 Future Policy Awards in recognition of the transformative potential and initial achievements of the 2021 Nigeria National Action Plan on Youth, Peace, and Security (NNAPYPS).
Director, Information and Public Relations, Omolara Esan, in a statement in Abuja, said the six priority areas outlined by the Minister include: Access to Capital, Job Creation, Empowerment, Skill Development, Entrepreneurship Support, and Youth Involvement in Decision-Making Processes.
According to the Minister, Nigeria’s sustainable growth and economic progress hinge on the empowerment of its youth, who make up over 60 percent of the population and represent the nation’s greatest strength.
“To facilitate this vision, the Ministry has established a Youth Help Desk to provide direct engagement opportunities for young people to address their concerns. Additionally, the government has approved the establishment of: A Youth House in Abuja, A Youth Centre in every state of the federation, A Youth Green House in all 774 local government areas.
These initiatives will create platforms for interaction, engagement, and idea-sharing among Nigerian youths,” the Minister stated.
Comrade Olawande also highlighted additional programs such as the Corpreneur Support Initiative, Young & Secure, and other training and development initiatives aimed at enhancing the creative and entrepreneurial potential of young Nigerians.
He appealed to stakeholders, including state governors and commissioners, to support the establishment of these Youth Centres and ensure their state-level plans align with the national youth development agenda.
“Our youth need safe spaces to exchange ideas, network, and innovate. Their empowerment, support, and protection remain essential to unlocking their full potential,” Olawande emphasized.
In his opening remarks, the Borno State Governor, Governor Babagana Umaru Zulum, reaffirmed the importance of youth development, describing Nigerian youths as the backbone of the nation’s economy.
He pledged his administration’s commitment to initiatives such as vocational training, education, and scholarship programs to equip young people with the skills and resources needed for success.
“We believe that investing in our youth is investing in our future. With 70 percent of Nigeria’s population under the age of 30, this demographic is an invaluable asset that must be nurtured and supported.
“This renewed focus on youth development signals the Federal Government’s dedication to empowering the next generation, ensuring their ability to thrive and contribute meaningfully to the country’s economic growth,” he concluded.
Meanwhile, in recognition of the transformative potential and initial achievements of the 2021 Nigeria National Action Plan on Youth, Peace, and Security (NNAPYPS), Nigeria was honored by the World Future Council (WFC) with the prestigious Vision Award at the 2024 Future Policy Awards.
The groundbreaking initiative that addressed global challenges was held at the Maison de la Paix in Geneva, Switzerland.
Accepting the award on behalf of the Federal Government of Nigeria, the Permanent Secretary of Nigeria’s Federal Ministry of Youth Development, Olubunmi Olusanya, expressed his gratitude and pride, stating that the award is a testament to the hard work and dedication of all those involved in implementing the National Action Plan.
It is a recognition of the collective efforts to create a safer and more inclusive environment for Nigerian youth.
He further stated that the current administration of President Bola Tinubu remains dedicated to advancing youth empowerment initiatives, ensuring that the goals outlined in the National Action Plan are not only achieved but surpassed, driving meaningful progress in youth development, peace, and security.
“This award celebrates our national achievement and reminds us of the work ahead. Therefore, we remain steadfast in our commitment to empowering our youth, eradicating violence, addressing inequality, and building a nation where peace and security are not merely aspirations but reality,” Olubunmi added.
Presenting the award, Frank Otto, World Future Council Ambassador and media entrepreneur, spotlighted Nigeria’s leadership in implementing United Nations Security Council Resolution 2250, which, according to him, emphasizes the critical role of youth in peacebuilding.
“Nigeria was the first country in Africa and the second globally to domestically implement this resolution,” Otto stated.
This year’s World Future Policy Award (WFPA) underscores the importance of investing in peacebuilding policies that empower future generations.
With over 140 million young people, Nigeria’s leadership offers a bold vision for a global movement prioritizing youth as indispensable agents of peace.
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