The Federal Government has called for collaboration with State Youth Commissioners to leverage their expertise in designing and implementing a comprehensive policy to accelerate youth development in Nigeria.

Minister, Federal Ministry of Youth Development, Dr. Jamila Bio Ibrahim, made this call yesterday in Abuja during a consultative meeting with Commissioners of Youth from all 36 states of the Federation and Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

Dr. Ibrahim emphasised the importance of a robust collaborative approach that will involve synergy with the State Commissioners, conducting in-depth consultations and analysis to ensure that the unique needs and challenges faced by young people in different states are well-documented.

The Minister invited the Commissioners to join the Federal Government in all its policies and initiatives, such as the Restructured Nigerian Youth Investment Fund, the Presidential Initiatives on Youth Enterprise Clusters, the establishment of the National Youth Development Bank, the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) Reform, the National Youth Skills Programme, and the 30 percent youthquote for all Federal Appointments.

She urged them to take the programs back to their states, engage communities, and ensure that young people fully benefit from these opportunities.

Meanwhile, Jamila announced the proposed launch of the National Council on Youth, which will serve as a critical platform for coordination and collaboration among stakeholders in the youth development space.

According to her, “The council composition includes the Minister, Minister of State, Permanent Secretary, Commissioners of Youth from all States and the FCT, and other key stakeholders in the Ministry.”

“This body will play a central role in ensuring that our policies are effectively implemented and that the voices of our youth are heard at the highest levels of government. I look forward to working closely with all of you on this council as we chart a united path for youth development in Nigeria.”

The FCT Youth Mandate Secretary, Abdullahi Suleiman Ango, and the Commissioner of Oyo State, Wasilat Adegoke, stressed the importance of the consultative meeting as a vital opportunity to launch impactful youth empowerment programmes at both the state and federal levels.

They urged the youth to seize the available youth developmental programmes and be committed to upholding peace and unity in the country.