The Nigerian Government is forging a strategic partnership with the European Union (EU) to supercharge youth programmes initiatives, empowering young people to become self-reliant and bridging the gap between them and the government.
This was announced by the Honourable Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande during his visit to the European Union delegation to Nigeria and ECOWAS in Abuja, the nation’s capital.
The partnership prioritises the establishment of the Youth Connect Hub, a groundbreaking initiative providing young Nigerians with invaluable resources, mentorship, and training opportunities to foster entrepreneurship. This move demonstrates the Federal Government’s unwavering commitment to collaborating with the European Union delegation in Nigeria.
He said: “The hub will empower youth to innovate and create sustainable businesses, ultimately driving economic growth and transformation in the nation.”
The Minister lauded the EU’s contribution to the Review of Nigeria’s National Youth Policy. He also solicits support for various initiatives and programmes of the Ministry, including the Nigerian Youth Academy (NiYA), training and skills building platform, the Youth Helpdesk and other youth-focused initiatives of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.
He stressed the critical need for young people to engage in leadership and governance programmes, advocating that their active participation in decision-making processes is essential for creating policies and initiatives that reflect their interests and concerns.
Ambassador-designate of the EU and ECOWAS, Mr. Gautier Mignot, expressed a strong commitment to supporting the Ministry’s diverse initiatives and programmes. He assured that the EU will continue to provide the Nigerian government with assistance in all areas that align with its priorities.
Dominica Nwabufo
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