The National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) has extended its congratulations to Ayodele Olawande on his recent appointment as the Minister of Youth Development.
This announcement follows President Bola Tinubu’s cabinet reshuffle, during which Olawande transitioned from his previous role as Minister of State for Youth Development.
In a statement released on Thursday, NYCN President Sara-Igbe Sukubo urged Olawande to drive meaningful change and implement youth empowerment initiatives across the nation. “Youths are eager for transformative policies that prioritize skill acquisition, entrepreneurship, and empowerment,” Sukubo emphasized, calling for Olawande to approach his new responsibilities with “vigour and dedication.”
The statement highlighted the pressing challenges facing Nigerian youth, including high unemployment rates, inadequate access to quality education, and limited opportunities for skill development. “The challenges confronting Nigerian youth are multifaceted and require a robust response,” the NYCN noted, urging the minister to prioritize these issues and create programs that enhance vocational training and promote entrepreneurship.
Sukubo also encouraged Olawande to foster partnerships with private sector stakeholders, educational institutions, and non-governmental organizations, stating that such collaborations would enhance the reach and effectiveness of youth-focused initiatives.
Expressing the NYCN’s commitment to supporting the minister, Sukubo said, “Our network is vast, and our dedication to empowering youth across Nigeria is resolute. We encourage all Nigerian youths to rally behind the newly appointed Minister and the Federal Government.”
The NYCN also called on young people to actively engage with Olawande and his ministry, emphasizing the importance of feedback and participation in shaping policies that affect their lives. “Together, we can address the challenges confronting our generation and transform them into opportunities for growth and success,” Sukubo concluded, expressing optimism for the future under Olawande’s leadership.
