• …Urges sustained belief in the ‘Renewed Hope’ mantra

By Joel Ajayi

1st October of every year is a moment for all Nigerians to commemorate the nation’s Independence Day. Typically, this is accompanied by the display of National accomplishments through time.

It was just after midnight in Lagos, on a horse-racing track turned square, when Nigeria’s new white and green flag was hoisted officially for the first time, replacing Britain’s Union Jack.

Several hours later, on the morning of October 1, 1960, a representative of Queen Elizabeth II handed Nigeria’s constitution over to Abubakar Tafawa Balewa, the country’s new prime Minister.

Before being granted Independence by the Colonial masters, Nigerians of the time faced myriads of obstacles in struggling for self-determination, a move that eventually paid off in 1960 in which we are celebrating sixty-four of independence today.

Under the visionary leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the presidency is sparing no efforts, despite the series of challenges ranging from insecurity to unemployment.

As part of his commitment to put smiles on the faces of many Nigerians, especially the youth, he has initiated transformative policies and reforms aimed at correcting the missteps of the past and repositioning Nigeria as an economic superpower soon.

Despite global economic headwinds and the transitional pains accompanying some of the reforms, the President has remained focused in his efforts towards reviving our economy and returning the country to the path of prosperity and sustainable growth.

That is why he appointed technocrats to supervise the Youth ministry, having known the importance of the vibrant young Nigerians.

As at today, these Ministers are trying their best, especially the Minister for State, Ministry of Youth Development Mr Ayodele Olawande who has weathered the storm toward the betterment of every Nigerian youth.

Based on this, in the spirit of Nigeria’s 64th Independence Anniversary celebrations, the Ministry of Youth Development highlighted the key interventions of the current administration, for the Nigerian youth.

Speaking at a press briefing during the weekend in Abuja, Olawande urged Nigerians to remain hopeful about the government’s “Renewed Hope” agenda, assuring that better days lie ahead.

Mr. Olawande noted that the President’s appointments predominantly reflect the inclusion of children of average Nigerians, thereby promoting equal opportunities. “This underscores the President’s desire to build a nation where no one is denied opportunities based on their background.”

According to him, President Tinubu has demonstrated his commitment to fulfilling every promise he made to the youth. During his campaign, he vowed to prioritize youth inclusion in governance, and he has kept that promise. He approved a specific percentage for youth representation in his government, which has been implemented. Several young individuals have also been appointed as Directors-General, Executive Secretaries, and Chairpersons of agencies, parastatals, and boards.

In addition to youth inclusion in governance, the Minister highlighted other initiatives launched by the Tinubu administration to support young Nigerians. “The President has initiated the Student Loan Scheme, which enables Nigerian youth to access quality education without financial constraints. He has also approved the establishment of the Nigerian Youth Academy (NiYA), which will provide young people with relevant skills to enhance their participation in business and the job market.”

Mr. Olawande continued, “As we confront the challenge of youth unemployment, the President believes that about 75% of job seekers can find opportunities within the growing MSME sector and through rapid initiatives at the Bank of Industry (BOI).”

“Recognizing the digital potential of Nigerian youth, the government also launched the ‘Digital Literacy for All’ (DL4ALL) program, which aims to train over 30 million young Nigerians in digital skills, in partnership with NYSC and NITDA.”

The Minister further mentioned the recent approval of a Youth House in Abuja, which will serve as a platform for youth to express their abilities, explore their passions, and identify their self-identity.

He also reminded the audience of the National Youth Investment Fund (NYIF), with an initial capital of N110 billion, designed to provide financial support to young entrepreneurs and startups.

Speaking further, Olawande stated the Ministry of Youth Development, in collaboration with the Presidential Initiative on CNG (Compressed Natural Gas), is set to distribute 2,000 CNG-powered tricycles to Nigerian youth.

According to the Minister, “I have just concluded a meeting regarding a partnership between the Federal Ministry of Youth Development, the Presidential Initiative on CNG, and the Amalgamated Commercial Motorcycle Owners and Riders Association of Nigeria for a Tricycle Empowerment Programme targeting youths in the informal sector.”

He further stated, “On Tuesday, October 1st, we will launch the first phase of the project, distributing 2,000 CNG-powered tricycles to young people engaged in the transportation sector by the end of the year. This initiative will ensure that tricycle riders, who are predominantly youth, will spend only 20% of what they currently spend on petrol. This will improve their profit margins and reduce transportation costs for passengers.”

Mr. Olawande also appealed to Nigerian youths to embrace the various government initiatives, stressing that the future of the country lies in the hands of its youth. He emphasized President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to empowering the younger generation, stating, “As our forefathers fought for the independence of this nation, it is our responsibility as the youth to preserve its unity for future generations. We must not allow ourselves to be used as agents of destruction under any circumstances.”

In his welcoming address, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Olubunmi Ojo, explained the purpose of the press briefing, saying, “The essence of today’s briefing is to highlight the achievements of the Ministry. Yes, as youths, we deserve a lot, and that is why we demand a lot. But the present administration, led by President Bola Tinubu, GCFR, has shown commitment to meeting the needs of Nigerian youth.

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