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FG Inaugurates Technical Committee On Establishment of National Youth Bank
Joel Ajayi
In a determined effort to empower young people, cultivate their potential, and support their ambitions in ways that will create lasting change, the Federal Government has inaugurated a technical committee to establish the national youth bank.
While addressing the committee members at a brief inauguration ceremony held in his office, the Honourable Minister, Federal Ministry of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, said the committee members’ job is to guide the establishment of the Youth Bank in every critical aspect: its governance structure to operational model, from the types of financial services it will offer to how it engages with young people.
The Minister tasked the committee to establish a strong foundation in order to ensure that the Youth Bank becomes a vibrant and sustainable institution, adding that the committee is responsible for designing a comprehensive strategy for the bank, as well as developing operational and governance frameworks that will guarantee transparency, accountability, and long-term success.
He emphasized that the committee will focus on identifying and building partnerships with financial institutions and other stakeholders to ensure that the Youth Bank has the resources and support needed to expand and achieve its goals and also committed to creating an inclusive environment where youth from diverse backgrounds can access the opportunities, regardless of their socioeconomic status, gender, or geographic location.
“The vision for the Youth Bank is to deliver on the Presidential Mandate delegated to the Ministry of Youth Development to create a dynamic platform where young people can access the financial support, resources, and mentorship necessary to translate their ideas into action.
“The Youth Bank is an institution designed to provide young people with not just the financial capital but also the necessary capacity-building, guidance, and opportunities they need to thrive. The Bank will serve as a platform that empowers youth to become the leaders, innovators, and entrepreneurs of both today and tomorrow,” the Minister stated.
Olawande expressed appreciation to the Development Bank of Nigeria for agreeing to co-chair the event, as well as to the Central Bank of Nigeria, the Bank of Industry, the Ministry of Finance, and the Nigerian Sovereign Investment Authority. He also commended the management staff of the Ministry for their commitment and dedication to supporting the youth and affirming the nation’s belief in their capabilities.
In his welcome address, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Youth Development, Mr. Olubunmi Olusanya, spoke extensively on the committee’s importance. He observed that despite Nigerian youth’s remarkable potential, many young people lack the resources, networks, and financial support needed to fully realize their ambitions.
Mr. Boneventure Okhaimo, a representative from the Bank of Industry, expressed the readiness of the bank to work with the Ministry and other stakeholders to actualize the vision of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, while outlining the significance of the committee and its relevance to the success of the Youth Bank.
In his own contribution, Mr. John S. Onoja, representative of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), affirmed the commitment of the apex bank to ensure speedy registration and licensing of the Youth Bank as soon as all necessary criteria are met
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Reps Security Session: Wale Raji Proposes Service Extension, Special Courts to Tackle Insecurity”
Joel Ajayi
The House of Representatives, on Thursday, intensified its search for sustainable solutions to Nigeria’s worsening security challenges as lawmakers continued it’s Special Plenary Session dedicated to reviewing the nation’s security architecture and strengthening its legislative response to growing threats.
Contributing to the debate, Hon. Wale Raji Member Representing Epe federal constituency of Lagos State and the Chairman House committee on livestock development presented far-reaching proposal aimed at strengthening national defense and tackling the escalating wave of insecurity across the country.
Hon. Raji commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for approving the recruitment of additional personnel into the Nigerian Police Force and the Nigerian Army. He, however, stressed that beyond new recruitment, Nigeria must urgently retain the institutional memory and field experience of officers nearing retirement.
Raji proposed an extension of service years for retiring military and police personnel—provided they are medically certified fit—arguing that their expertise is indispensable at a time when national security is under severe strain.
“New recruits will require extensive training and time to gain experience,Meanwhile, we have seasoned hands whose skills and knowledge can still be harnessed. The Public Service Rules allow for this extension, and we can consider an additional two to five years for fit and capable officers.”he noted.
The lawmaker further pushed for the establishment of Special Courts or Tribunals to handle terrorism and banditry-related cases. He recommended that investigations, trials, and convictions be conducted within a six-month window to ensure swift justice and send a strong message to criminal elements.
Hon. Raji also urged the House to accelerate constitutional amendments to make state police a reality and called for stronger integration of local governments into Nigeria’s security structure. Citing successful community-based security models from Lagos, he stressed their effectiveness in tackling local crimes and aiding prosecution.
Responding to Raji’s presentation, Deputy Speaker Benjamin Okezie Kalu praised the recommendations as “thought-provoking,” particularly the suggestion to re-engage retired officers whose experience the nation cannot afford to waste.
Kalu said the idea could lead to the creation of a special, highly trained force led by experienced officers who left the service due to promotions or political appointments.“It is a very stimulating suggestion,We will dissect it further and reflect it appropriately in our resolutions.”he said.
The House is expected to develop concrete actions based on these proposals as Nigeria presses forward in the fight against insecurity.
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