The federal government has declared initiatives aimed at transforming the prospects and opportunities for Nigerian youth.
The initiatives include a reform of the National Youth Service Corps, NYSC, to focus more on ensuring that when young people finish school, they are ready to obtain good jobs or start their own businesses.
Additionally, the establishment of the NextGen Bank in April 2024 will assist young people with funding to start their own entrepreneurial projects.
Other initiatives include implementing a mandatory 30% quota in government appointments to amplify youth voices in decision-making and the construction of three youth villages in Niger, Katsina and Ebonyi, among others.
Dr. Jamila Bio Ibrahim, the Minister of Youth Development, unveiled the reform agenda in Abuja yesterday, while outlining a visionary roadmap for empowering the nation’s young population.
The minister said: “the President’s vision for the youth of Nigeria is transformative. It encompasses comprehensive education and skills development, empowerment through various initiatives, and effective engagement at all levels.
“The NextGen bank is set to launch in April 2024. This retail development financial institution will provide grants, low-interest loans, and equity investments, catalysing youth entrepreneurship in the agriculture, sustainable mining, green energy, sustainable mobility, blue economy, healthcare services, education and skill development, financial services, ICT and telecoms.”
Quadri Olaitan is a journalist and contributor to Freelanews.com, covering news, public affairs, and human-interest stories.
