The Federal Government is gearing up to refurbish and enhance 42 youth centres nationwide as part of efforts to bolster empowerment initiatives. Minister of Youth Development, Jamila Bio-Ibrahim, disclosed this during a visit by representatives of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Abuja. She highlighted the need to revitalize these centres, many of which are currently inactive, to better serve young Nigerians.
Bio-Ibrahim solicited UNDP's assistance in executing the government's strategic plans aimed at equipping Nigerian youth with essential skills, mentorship, conducive environments, and resource access to enable them to actively contribute to the economy. She emphasized the ministry's strategic focus on transforming youth into economic catalysts and outlined key areas such as reducing youth unemployment, enhancing skills in demand globally, and fostering youth participation in socio-economic development.
The minister outlined the ministry's tactical initiatives, structured around four pillars: Governance, Jobs and Skills Innovation, Culture and Behavioral Change, and Human Capital Development. These pillars are designed to guide policy advocacy, improve stakeholder coordination, and provide comprehensive youth programs and resources.
Bio-Ibrahim also highlighted the administration's commitment to establishing effective communication governance frameworks, implementing mentorship programs in the public and private sectors, creating platforms for youth employment, reforming the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), and establishing youth villages and innovation centers. Additionally, plans are underway to revitalize the National Youth Investment Fund (NYIF), launch the Young Leaders Institute, and implement programs addressing youth-related challenges like climate change, gender issues, mental health, and substance abuse.
