Joel Ajayi
Federal Government has launched the National Youth Dialogue to tackle challenges facing Nigerian Youth.
The Minister of State, Federal Ministry of Youth Development, Mr. Ayodele Olawande performed the unveiling ceremony at his office in Abuja.
He said the unprecedented initiative is aimed at engaging Nigerian youth in constructive conversations to tackle critical issues such as unemployment, skill development, mental health and entrepreneurship opportunities.
Mr Olawande noted that the groundbreaking dialogue will provide a platform for youth to voice their concerns and contribute to shaping policies that directly impact their future.
The Minister emphasized that this platform will be extended to Nigerian youth in all the 774 local government areas across the country, adding that it will serve as a vital channel to elucidate, engage and exchange ideas on government initiatives, fostering meaningful dialogue and collaboration.
He stressed the importance of the platform in nurturing a strong sense of patriotism among the Nigerian Youth while fostering a culture of entrepreneurship, provision of extensive training as well as creating networks aimed at ensuring the long-term sustainability of youth-led initiatives.
Mr Olawande explained that the platform seeks to encourage collaboration and unity among Nigerian youth irrespective of their ethnic background or political beliefs.
He emphasized that the Ministry is dedicated to utilizing this opportunity to fulfill its core mandate, combat unemployment, and foster an environment conducive for individuals to thrive.
“With regards to the student loan program, the President has made it abundantly clear that no student should face the prospect of dropping out of school due to an inability to pay tuition fees at any university in the country. As a result, a growing number of students are now successfully accessing the student loan, ensuring that financial constraints do not hinder their pursuit of higher education,” he stated.
