Youth engagement in societal affairs is not merely desirable; it is essential for the holistic development of nations worldwide. the significance of youth involvement in policy formulation, governance, and politics cannot be undermined. It embodies multifaceted benefits and transformative power that every nation needs.

While speaking to over 1,000 participants at the Lagos Leadership Summit a few weeks ago, The Honorable Minister of State for Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande mentioned that one of the agendas of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu through the youth ministry is to make sure the “Nigerian youths see the government, touch the government and feel the government” and that is exactly what Ayodele Olawande has been doing since he emerged as the Minister of State for Youth Development.

At the summit, Ayodele Olawande disclosed that his passion for youth engagement is tantamount to that of any concerned leader, he stated that engaging youth instills a sense of responsibility and belonging, fostering active citizenship and social cohesion. When young people are encouraged to participate in mentorship programs, volunteer work, community service projects, and grassroots advocacy campaigns, they develop a deeper connection to their communities and gain invaluable leadership experience that prepares them for future roles as responsible citizens and leaders.

You may also recall that the Minister, over the past 5 months, has met various youth stakeholders at his office and also at various gatherings all across the country with the core goal-driven agenda of preaching Mr President’s vision for Nigerian Youths.

While speaking to Youth in Borno, HMS Ayodele Olawande encouraged youths in the state to be a true ambassadors of positivity. He spoke extensively about making the right plans for Nigeria and engaging in activities that will assist the government in ensuring a better tomorrow for all. This engagement serves as a potent catalyst for societal change and progress. With their fresh perspectives, innovative ideas, and boundless energy, youths bring new solutions to age-old problems. Whether it's advocating for environmental sustainability, social justice, or political reform, youths are at the forefront of movements driving positive change.

In Delta state, the Minister met with youth stakeholders in the state irrespective of their political affiliation, this move is aimed at the inclusion of youth voices in decision-making processes which amplifies the diversity of perspectives and ensures that policies and initiatives are reflective of the needs and aspirations of future generations. The minister advised the youth stakeholders to continue to actively participate in community forums, political discussions, and grassroots initiatives. He stated that young people contribute valuable insights that shape a more inclusive and equitable society because they belong to the largest demography in the world with a range of ideas, thoughts, and innovations that are needed in the process of nation-building.

The Youth Minister has replicated the aforementioned in every state he has visited including Lagos, Akwa-Ibom, Ondo, Bayelsa, Cross-River, Kogi, Ibadan, Kano, and Kaduna. Also, Corp Members are not left out in all of these states. The continuous effort of the HMS will yield positive results in both the short and long run.

Through the Youth Engagement strive of the HMS, we have witnessed a good level of renewed strength and hope from Nigerian Youths. The Youths are more knowledgeable about the dynamics of the economy and the numerous interventions of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's administration towards ensuring that we create a better future for our Youth.

To the Youth Minister, Youth engagement is not just a matter of convenience; it is a matter of necessity for the advancement of societies worldwide. By harnessing the creativity, energy, and passion of young people, we can build a more just, sustainable, and inclusive world for present and future generations. It is imperative that government at various levels, civil society organizations NGOs, development partners, and other stakeholders follow the road map of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to prioritize youth engagement, and create opportunities for young people to participate meaningfully in shaping the future of our country.

Through the NiYA platform, the Minister has developed a mechanism that will improve the skillset of Nigerian Youths, The Nigerian Youth Academy provides online classes to Nigerian Youths who are willing to learn at no cost. ( https://www .niya. ng). The Ministry recently introduced a community aspect of the NiYA platform where Youths can explore, connect, and grow with like-minded individuals and also dive into a space of connection, collaboration, and growth. ( https://my. nigerianyouthacademy. com/)

Meanwhile, the Youths on the streets aren't left out as the minister had already made commitments towards building “Green Houses” in all 774 local governments of the federation. The “Green House” will provide vocational training and orientation to the informal youths, who over the years have been neglected by the government. “We are going back to the grassroots” - the Minister said while speaking to Youths in Cross River State and that's exactly what the minister is striving to achieve.

These coordinated initiatives will be of great benefit to not just the youths but Nigeria as a whole, it will help to build a future that we all have been clamoring for. Your continued support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration is indeed needed to achieve all these and together, we shall shine.