The Federal Government has disclosed plans to focus on six key strategic areas towards the transformation of young people from January 2025.

The Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande disclosed this at the ongoing 7th National Council on Youth Development (NCYD) in Borno state with the theme “Transforming and Repositioning the Nigerian Youth to thrive and Catalyse Economic Development.”

Olawande listed the areas to include: Access to capital, Job creation, Empowerment, Skill Development, Entrepreneurship Support, and Co-opting the youths into the decision-making process.

According to the Minister, Nigeria’s potential for sustainable growth is directly linked to the empowerment and transformation of the youth, which according to him, make up over 60 percent of the population and represent the nation’s greatest strength.

He disclosed that the Ministry has established a youth help desk to ensure that young people have the opportunity to engage with the government about their concerns.

The Minister appealed for stakeholders’ support to achieve the delivery of the youth centre, adding that Nigerian youths need a space to share ideas and network.

Borno State governor, Prof. Babagana Umaru Zulum, who acknowledged youths as the backbone of Nigeria’s economy, said it is the responsibility of governments to provide them with all the necessary support and resources to strive and develop their full potential.

“We believe that investing in our youths, is investing in our future and we are committed to creating opportunities youths needs to grow and be successful, empowering our youths including the provision of vocational training and programs, education, and awarding scholarships.

“This population is an asset of the nation, which shows that 70% of the Nigeria population is under the age of 30.”