Tinubu bent on 30% youth inclusion in governance – Minister

The Minister of Youth Development, Dr. Jamila Bio Ibrahim, has assured that the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu-led administration is committed to implementing 30 percent youth inclusion in the governance of the country.

Speaking at the Mastercard Foundation side event during the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), themed “Empowering Women, Transforming Africa,” she proudly noted President Tinubu’s historic approval of 30% youth inclusion in governance, with equal gender representation.

She explained that this bold move, enshrined in the President’s Renewed Hope Agenda, signifies a pivotal moment for youth and gender empowerment in Nigeria and across the continent.

The event, held in partnership with the African Leadership Academy Diaspora Initiative (ALADI) and streamed live in New York and Nairobi, aimed to bring international discourse on women’s empowerment back to the African continent.

Dr. Ibrahim, invited alongside several high-profile women, including Winnie Byanyima, Executive Director of UNAIDS and UN Under-Secretary-General, and Deniece Laurent-Mantey, Head of Africa at the White House and Executive Director of the President of the United States (POTUS) Africa Diaspora Advisory Council, used the platform to echo the success of Nigeria’s commitment to youth inclusion.

“As we gather to discuss how we can empower women and transform Africa, I am proud to share that Nigeria is already leading by example,” the minister declared.

“President Tinubu’s approval of 30% youth inclusion in governance, with a focus on young women, is a blueprint for the world. Nigeria is no longer just talking about youth empowerment—we are making it happen.”

Dr. Ibrahim also noted key flagship programs initiated under her leadership, including the Nigerian Youth Investment Fund (NYIF) and the National Youth Skills Programme (NYSP), which are ready to create real opportunities for youth development across Nigeria.

She advocated for further collaboration with the Mastercard Foundation, calling for support in expanding these initiatives to reach more young people across Africa.

“With partners like the Mastercard Foundation, we can accelerate the success of youth development programs, such as the NYIF and NYSP, to equip young Nigerians, especially women, with the skills and financial support they need to thrive,” she stated.

The minister’s participation alongside global figures such as Winnie Byanyima and Deniece Laurent-Mantey underscored Nigeria’s leadership in youth and gender inclusivity.

By amplifying President Tinubu’s 30% youth inclusion policy at this international event, Dr. Ibrahim reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to setting the standard for youth empowerment, ensuring young women are central to Africa’s transformation.