World Youth Skills Day: FG restates commitment to youth employment

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The Federal Government of Nigeria said it is committed to implementing a comprehensive youth employment programs to address the growing issue of unemployment in the country.

This was disclosed during the commemoration of the 2024 World Youth Skills Day, with the theme: “Youth Skills For Peace & Development,” organized by the Ministry of Youth Development at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Abuja.

Dr Jamila Bio Ibrahim, the Minister of Youth Development, spoke on the Ministry’s initiatives aimed at tackling unemployment and bridging the significant employment gap among Nigeria’s rapidly growing youth population.

Dr. Ibrahim outlined several new programs designed to provide meaningful opportunities for young people to enter the workforce and contribute positively to the nation’s economy.

She emphasized the proactive measures the Ministry has undertaken to address the escalating issue of youth unemployment.

She highlighted the Ministry’s recent establishment of a state-of-the-art tailoring hub at the National Youth Development Centre in Odeomu, Osun State.

According to the minister, ”This hub is equipped with modern fashion and tailoring machinery, providing a conducive environment for young entrepreneurs to acquire and refine their skills in fashion design and related fields.”

The global challenge of youth unemployment, particularly in developing countries where many young people are underemployed and exposed to low-quality jobs, she said.

She expressed confidence that the 2024 World Skills Day would foster collaboration among key stakeholders in youth development and enhance enthusiasm for skill acquisition and entrepreneurship in Nigeria.

She said the event aligns with the government’s “Renewed Hope Agenda,” aiming to create a robust platform for skill development and empowerment.

Also, Olawande Ayodele, Minister of State for Youth Development, reinforced the government’s commitment to equipping the youth with essential skills for better employability.

He highlighted the importance of job fairs in promoting skill acquisition and announced an ambitious goal to ensure that seven million Nigerian youths acquire at least two skills each within the next two years, in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu‘s renewed hope agenda.

Dr. Dunoma Umar Ahmed, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, extended a warm welcome to the dignitaries, guests from various Ministries, Departments, and Agencies, development partners, youth leaders, and other stakeholders.

He reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to advancing skills acquisition, nurturing peace, and promoting socio-economic growth throughout Nigeria.