The Minister for Youth Development, Federal Ministry of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande’s one year as a substantive minister is characterized by relentless growth and improvement, propelled by innovation, fueled by progress and impact, and marked by significant advancements and outcomes.
Without intending to disparage past ministers, it’s safe to say the Federal Ministry of Youth Development has witnessed a new wave in its history, revisiting its raison d’être, retracing its steps, and upholding its true mandate – to serve as the office of the youth. This was made possible by the deserving candidate’s accession to the position.
Over the years, the youth, who constitute the majority of the country’s population, have been largely unaware of the ministry’s existence. Coupling it with the Ministry of Sport didn’t help, as the focus was more on sports-related activities. I commend President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for recognizing and giving the youth a special status in his administration. His laudable initiative split the Youth and Sport Ministry to ensure timely and efficient development of the dominant population, and later pushed sport under a commission for proper supervision.
Cabinet reshuffles are often dominated by unholistic moves, cabal tactics, and manipulative intentions. However, I was pleasantly surprised by the president’s cabinet reshuffle. While many ministers felt unsafe and lobbied to stay in office, Comrade Ayodele Olawande arrested the president’s attention with hard work and engagement with the youth.
On October 23rd, 2024, Comrade Ayodele Olawande was elevated as the substantive Minister of the Federal Ministry of Youth Development. He serves as an intermediary between the federal government and the youth, bridging the gap and facilitating an environment where the youth can be heard, seen, supported, and promoted.
In one of the many stories we were told while growing up, particularly in marriage, there used to be no physical contact or connection whatsoever between the husband and wife to be. There is always an intermediary (àlárińá-in Yoruba). The determinant of the marriage is solely based on the communication skills and sweet mouth of the intermediary. They gather information from one side, and give the other side either to influence their decision, facilitate a benefit or inform them on areas that needed attention. The ability to convince, promote and motivate others is essential.
On the part of the minister, he serves as àlárińá between the federal government and the youth of the country. He bridges the long abandoned gap between the government and the youth. Not only did he gathers information about areas of interest, he as well facilitate for an environment where the youth can be heard, seen, supported and promoted both in government and private sectors.
His achievements are enormous. As Minister of State for Youth Development (2023-2024), he initiated projects that have gained momentum. Since his elevation, his records have become more impressive. Notable achievements include:
– Establishing a working and efficient youth help desk – the Nigerian 911
– Launching the Nigerian Youth Academy (NIYA) to train youth in at least two skills (One Youth, Two Skills), benefiting 59,712 youths
– Yo! Health Initiative, providing health support to 1,056 Nigerian youth
Comrade Ayodele has demonstrated that he belongs to the people. His interactions with the youth and accessibility are unparalleled. He understands their challenges and works with them to provide solutions. For someone like him, who is committed to making changes and facilitating development, support is essential.
The youth need a collective voice to acknowledge, promote, and encourage his work. United, we can drive the change we deserve.