FG Partners with NYSC Foundation to Boost Youth Engagement Nationwide

The Federal Government, through the Minister of State for Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, has reiterated its commitment to enhance youth engagement in Nigeria. In a strategic partnership with the NYSC Foundation, the government aims to provide Nigerian youth with meaningful opportunities to deter them from negative behavior.

The collaboration was announced during a courtesy visit by the NYSC Foundation, led by Executive Secretary Barr. Ventim Bako, to the Minister's office in Abuja. Olawande emphasized the importance of expanding the foundation’s initiatives to all 774 local government areas in the country, targeting sectors such as agriculture, arts and crafts, and ICT.

"We cannot achieve this alone. Our partnership with the NYSC Foundation will play a pivotal role in engaging youth across Nigeria. Together, we can provide them with the support needed to develop valuable skills," Olawande stated.

The Minister also highlighted the ongoing progress of the "NYSC Trust Fund" bill, which has passed its first reading in the National Assembly and is awaiting further deliberation.

The NYSC Foundation’s Executive Secretary, Barr. Ventim Bako, expressed optimism about the partnership, noting the foundation’s role in unifying ex-corps members and promoting self-reliance through entrepreneurial skill development. "This collaboration will foster capacity building and empower our youth to become key contributors to national development," Bako stated.

Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Olubunmi Olusanya, reaffirmed the Ministry’s dedication to working with organizations that align with the government's mandate to improve the lives of Nigerian youth.