The federal government has announced initiatives to transform 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.”
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