The Nigerian government has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Gender Mobile Initiative to bolster national efforts in preventing gender-based violence, enhancing youth engagement, providing psychosocial support, and building institutional capacity.
The agreement underscores the government’s renewed commitment to youth development.
The signing ceremony took place in Abuja, Nigeria’s capital, with the Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Youth Development, Mr Olubunmi Olusanya.
In his remarks, Olusanya highlighted the critical need to prioritise the mental wellbeing of Nigerian youth, especially as the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation recently approved the establishment of two new departments dedicated to youth mental health.
“Everything cannot revolve around youth employment and empowerment alone. The mental wellbeing of our youth is paramount and must not be overlooked. When they are psychologically stable, other aspects like employment and empowerment will naturally follow,” he stated.
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Describing the partnership as both timely and strategic, Olusanya revealed that the Ministry would develop the necessary policies and frameworks to support the new departments and align efforts with Gender Mobile Initiative to achieve common goals.
“I can assure you that every clause in the agreement will be implemented for the wellbeing of Nigerian youth, who will carry forward the vision where today’s leaders stop,” he added.
Also speaking at the event, Barrister Omowumi Ogunrotimi, who led the Gender Mobile Initiative delegation, described the partnership as a significant opportunity to amplify the voices of young people, particularly those silenced by stigma or systemic inequalities.
“At Gender Mobile Initiative, we have always believed that the safety, agency, and leadership of young people are non-negotiable pillars of national transformation.
‘This partnership with the Federal Ministry of Youth Development affirms that belief and creates a platform for tangible action,” she said.
Earlier, the Director of Education and Youth Development at the Ministry, Mr Kabiru Mohammed, welcomed attendees and reaffirmed the Ministry’s readiness to collaborate with the organisation to promote youth welfare and contribute to national development.