In a groundbreaking move to tackle youth unemployment and boost economic empowerment, the Federal Ministry of Youth Development, the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment, and Sapphital Limited have signed a transformative Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).
The agreement, signed by the Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, and the Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Dr. Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, marks a major step toward equipping young Nigerians with the skills and opportunities needed to thrive in today’s economy.
Speaking at the MoU signing ceremony held at the Ministry of Labour and Employment, Comrade Olawande highlighted the significance of the Labour Employment and Entrepreneurship Programme (LEEP) and the Nigerian Youth Academy (NIYA) platform.
According to him, these initiatives will redefine youth empowerment by providing clear pathways for skills development, job placement, and entrepreneurial growth.
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“This partnership goes beyond promises—it is about action. By integrating vocational training, technology, and mentorship, we are committed to equipping Nigerian youth with the right skills to succeed in today’s competitive job market,” he said.
The Director of Information and Public Relations, Omolara Esan, in a statement on Tuesday, said Olawande further emphasized that the collaboration between the two ministries aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s vision to tackle youth unemployment head-on and drive sustainable economic growth.
“Not only will this initiative prepare young Nigerians for existing jobs, but it will also empower them to become job creators—fostering innovation, enterprise, and prosperity across the nation,” he added.
In her remarks, Dr. Nkeiruka Onyejeocha reaffirmed the commitment of the Ministry of Labour and Employment to job creation under President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. She noted that LEEP was designed with the theme “Don’t Leave Anyone Behind,” ensuring that youth, women, and retirees all have access to economic opportunities.
“The Ministry of Labour and Employment is ready to collaborate with all stakeholders to reduce poverty, create wealth, and generate employment opportunities for Nigerians,” she said.
This landmark partnership signals a new era for Nigerian youth, opening doors to innovation, self-reliance, and a thriving workforce for the nation’s future.
Meanwhile, the Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, has stated that the proposed Youth Confab will focus on promoting equality in all discussions and initiatives by incorporating inclusive perspectives.
The minister made this statement while addressing youth in the informal sector, led by their team leader, Comrade Preye Tambou, during a courtesy visit to his office in Abuja.
Comrade Olawande emphasized the importance of commitment, noting that true progress can only be achieved when all voices are heard and valued. He added that by prioritizing equity in discussions and actions, the conference aims to create a more just and inclusive future for all youth.
“As a youth-focused initiative, the selection of representatives for the Youth Confab will be based on equality. This demonstrates the government’s commitment to creating a nation where equal opportunities are available to every Nigerian, regardless of social status, gender, or creed. You are the country’s greatest asset, and this administration is dedicated to fostering a bright future where Nigeria stands proudly as a nation,” Olawande affirmed.
The minister also noted, “Just last week, the President approved the automatic employment of 774 National Health Fellows—an initiative led by both the Federal Ministry of Youth Development and the Federal Ministry of Health. This pivotal program aims to foster sustained improvements within the Nigerian healthcare system and enhance the standard of living for the youth involved, as part of our broader efforts to empower them.”
Comrade Preye Tambou, the group leader, explained that their visit was intended to formally introduce themselves to the minister, given his role as the Youth Minister, and to appoint him as their patron. According to Preye, the Honourable Minister was selected due to the various initiatives he has launched to improve the standard of living for youth since taking office.
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