The Minister of Youth Development, Dr Jamila Ibrahim has called on the youths to cooperate with the Federal Government in growing the economy and building a better society for all.
The minister made the call at the 25th Nigeria’s Democracy Day Youths Conference in Abuja.
She called on the youth to join hands with the ministry and the government at large, to take the lead in the nation’s quest to become a trillion-dollar economy.
She stressed that the President Bola Tinubu’s administration is committed to ensuring that young Nigerians take the reins in the country’s political, economic, and socio-cultural spheres.
According to her, this commitment is not just in words, as it has been in times past, but through meticulously thought out and diligently executed plans.
“As we celebrate democracy day, we also celebrate the dawn of a new era for Nigeria’s youth.
“This day marks a significant milestone in our nation’s history, a testament to our enduring spirit and collective resolve to build a democratic society.
“With great pride and a deep sense of responsibility, I stand before you as we embark on a transformative journey to empower our youth and redefine the future of our beloved nation.
“We are not merely creating opportunities for every young Nigerian; we are preparing, equipping, and empowering you to seize these opportunities,” she stressed.
The Minister said that government has, over the years, make some significant strides towards building a promising future for Nigerian youths.
Ibrahim said that the restructuring of the Nigerian Youth Investment Fund (NYIF) will commence by June 30, adding that the process had been streamlined to ensure more young entrepreneur access the fund for innovation and to create jobs.
She disclosed that the National Youth Skills Programme (NYSP) would also kick-off on July 30, 2024, adding that the project aimed to train many youths with the needed skills to build the economy.
According to her, the implementation of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) reforms will also begin by July 30, to integrate skills development and entrepreneurship into the service year.
The Minister said that the Youth Development Bank will be inaugurated by Aug. 30, to provide tailored financial services to youth-led ventures, supporting innovative ideas and business growth.
Ibrahim also disclosed that the Young Leaders’ Institute will be inaugurated by Aug, 30, to nurture the next generation of Nigerian leaders with the skills, knowledge, and networks needed to excel.
According to her, bills for legislative action will be sent to the National Assembly to institutionalize a 30 per cent youth quota, restructure the Citizenship and Leadership Training Centre (CLTC), and establish the National Youth Fund.
She said that these legislative actions will solidify Federal Government’s commitment to youth empowerment and ensure sustainable development, adding.. (NAN
