By Stella Odueme
The Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande has assured that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is fully committed to adopting policies that have been thoughtfully recommended by the nation’s youth.
The Minister stated this during the Valedictory Sitting of the 5th Session of the Nigerian Youth Parliament, which took place at the National Assembly Complex in Abuja.
A statement by Omolara Esan, Director of
Information & Public Relations on Wednesday said that the minister stressed that the initiative acknowledges the crucial role young people play in shaping the future and demonstrates a genuine willingness to listen to their insights and perspectives.
The Minister recalled that Nigerian Youth Parliament, as a veritable platform, has allowed young people to air their views and promote meaningful participation in governance.
“The NYP is a flagship program of the Ministry, which was inaugurated and institutionalized in August 2008 by the late President Umaru Yar’Adua. It has run four sessions of two years each and has produced 436 youth requisite skills in legislative processes and rudiments of collective decision making.”
“As you conclude your tenure in the NYP and with the commitment of Mr. President’s administration to a 30% quota for youth and women representatives in governance, I urge you to remain vigilant and continue to advocate for the rights of the youth, champion inclusive policies, amplify the voices of those who are not always heard, continue being examples of integrity and patriotism,” he stated.
The minister who was represented by the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Mr. Olubunmi Olusanya, charged the outgoing parliamentarians to rise to the challenges and responsibilities ahead with their unwavering passion.
He reiterated Mr. President’s commitment to providing a conducive environment for youth to thrive and unleash their potentials,adding that the ministry is dedicated to expanding opportunities for youth empowerment, creating avenues for skill development, and supporting youth-led initiatives nationwide.
The outgoing Speaker of the 5th Session of the Nigerian Youth Parliament, Rt. Dr. Azeezat Yishawu, emphasized the importance of incorporating youth perspectives and contributions into various sectors of society.
She outlined several key recommendations aimed at enhancing youth inclusion in governance, which she said involves creating opportunities for young people to participate in decision-making processes and leadership roles.
She also highlighted the necessity of improving youth employability by advocating for skill development programmes and job creation initiatives tailored to meet the demands of the modern workforce.
Dr. Yishawu discussed the critical role of youth in the health sector, stressing the need to access quality healthcare and health education for young people.
He equally addressed the issue of youth security, and sought strategic measures that ensure the safety and well-being of young individuals in their communities. Overall, her recommendations aimed to empower Nigerian youth and create a more inclusive society that recognizes and harnesses their potential.
