The Federal Government has launched the National Youth Dialogue, a groundbreaking initiative aimed at empowering young Nigerians and fostering patriotism among the youth. The Minister of State for Youth Development, Mr. Ayodele Olawande, announced the initiative in Abuja on Wednesday, August 21.
This pioneering program promises to:
- Enhance entrepreneurship skills
- Provide cooperative training
- Facilitate access to resources
- Foster networking opportunities
Mr. Olawande called on young Nigerians to join forces and drive positive change. “It’s time to exchange ideas and support one another,” he said, emphasizing the need for consistent engagement, entrepreneurship, training, and job opportunities.
Olawande urged youths to organize themselves and develop strategies to move the country forward. He identified unemployment as a major challenge facing young people but expressed optimism that the National Youth Dialogue can help tackle this issue.
“The dialogue is a platform to address the big problem of unemployment and find solutions,” he said. “Let’s work together to create a brighter future for ourselves and our nation!”
He emphasized the need for an enabling environment to help young Nigerians thrive. “Not everyone can be a civil servant, senator, or minister,” he acknowledged. “But with the right support, everyone can succeed and make a living.”
Olawande highlighted several initiatives aimed at empowering youths, including:
- Students’ loan program with monthly incentives to ease repayment
- Youth Investment Fund for self-employment opportunities
- Upcoming Nigerian Youth Academy for access to resources and training
“Government is committed to renewing the hope of this country and investing in its young people,” he declared. “We’re creating opportunities for youths to succeed and make a positive impact!”
The honourable minister revealed that over 80,000 young Nigerians are currently undergoing digital training as part of a pilot program. The goal? To equip 7 million youths with in-demand skills within the next two years.
Co-convener of the National Youth Dialogue, Mr. Oladele Nihi, emphasized the importance of youths taking charge of their future. “Instead of protesting without direction, young leaders are stepping up to drive positive change,” he said.
Nihi identified the lack of mentorship as a major challenge facing youths but expressed optimism that the dialogue would help address this issue. “This initiative, led by the Forum of Special Advisers and Senior Special Assistants to Governors, is a collaborative effort to empower young people and shape Nigeria’s future,” he added.
In collaboration with the Pan African Youth Union, the National Youth Dialogue is poised to bring together 1,000 young leaders from across Nigeria to Abuja on September 30th, with an exciting opening ceremony slated for October 1st.
This inclusive initiative aims to unite representatives from all 774 local government areas, transcending political and religious divides. By fostering a spirit of unity and cooperation, the dialogue seeks to empower young Nigerians to drive positive change and shape a brighter future for their country.
Seunmanuel Faleye is a brand and communications strategist. He is a covert writer and an overt creative head. He publishes Apple’s Bite International Magazine.
