The Federal Government of Nigeria has reiterated its commitment to enhancing the professionalism of the Ministry of Youth Development, aiming to establish it on par with other specialized ministries across the country.
Speaking at an event organized by the Nigeria Youth Workers Association (NYWA) to commemorate the International Youth Work Week under the theme “Youth Work in every place and space,” held at the Federal Secretariat in Abuja, the Minister of Youth Development, Dr. Jamila Ibrahim, emphasized the alignment of the event with the core principles of the Ministry, which are centered around educating, engaging, and empowering the nation’s youth.
Dr. Ibrahim passionately stated, “The theme is a compelling call to action, challenging us to recognize the potential within our youth, irrespective of their environment – be it the tranquility of parks, the nurturing atmosphere of youth centers, the compassionate setting of hospitals, or the vibrant classrooms of schools.”
She further stressed the pivotal role of education as the foundation upon which nations are built, highlighting the Ministry’s focus on unleashing opportunities through educational empowerment.
In addition, Dr. Ibrahim revealed the Ministry’s plans to launch transformative initiatives such as the Youth Training and Certification programs, aimed at equipping young individuals with essential skills to thrive in a rapidly evolving economy.
Furthermore, she urged Nigerians to create platforms where young people can articulate their ideas, collaborate on projects, and seek mentorship.
Emphasizing the commitment to providing the necessary tools and resources for youth development, Dr. Ibrahim impassionedly reminded the youth of their responsibility in shaping Nigeria’s future, urging them to recognize the noble task of nation-building entrusted to them.
In his address, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Alhaji Ismaila Abubakar, represented by the Director of Enterprise Development and Promotion Department, Mr. Momoh Olugbenga, underscored the paramount importance of youth development to national prosperity, calling upon all youth workers to unite in championing the interests of the youth.
Alhaji Ismaila emphasized the peril of neglecting the youth, stating, “Any country that neglects its youth does so at its own peril, which is why the federal government appointed two dynamic youth as ministers to oversee the affairs of the Ministry.”
During his welcome address, the President of the Nigerian Youth Workers Association (NYWA), Mr. Ben Duntoye, highlighted the significance of the Youth Work Week as an annual celebration that illuminates the positive impact of youth work on young people globally.
He further expounded on the association’s role as the umbrella body for all youth workers and practitioners in Nigeria, outlining its significant achievements, including the establishment of 18 State chapters and formal recognition by esteemed international youth organizations such as the Commonwealth Youth Program and the Commonwealth Alliance of Youth Workers Association (CAYWA).
