Ayodele Olawande: Minister transforming youth development

By Mohammed Kabir

When it comes to public service, few officials achieve a level of impact that resonates deeply with the lives of citizens, particularly the youth. In Nigeria, a country with one of the largest youth populations in the world, the need for visionary leadership in youth development is crucial. Hon. Ayodele Olawande, Minister of Youth Development, has not only stepped into this role with a deep sense of duty but has also become a beacon of hope, innovation, and responsiveness. His journey from the Minister of State for Youth Development to his elevation as the substantive Minister is proof to his unwavering commitment to transforming the lives of young Nigerians.

From the outset, Olawande has demonstrated a leadership style rooted in direct engagement with young Nigerians. Unlike the conventional bureaucratic approach that often creates a gap between government officials and the people, he has actively toured states, meeting with young people to understand their aspirations, challenges, and immediate needs. These visits have not been mere ceremonial gestures but pivotal platforms for shaping programmes that align with the realities of Nigerian youth.

One of the hallmarks of his engagement strategy is his ability to turn dialogue into action. In Delta and Cross River States, for instance, after listening to the concerns of young people, he spearheaded training programmes to equip them with digital job skills, ensuring that they can compete in a rapidly evolving global economy. This grassroots approach has fostered trust and strengthened the relationship between the youth and the government, proving that their voices are heard and valued.

Beyond economic empowerment, Olawande has shown a deep sense of empathy in addressing the needs of vulnerable young people. His visit to Maimalari Barracks in Borno, where he met wounded young soldiers, was not just a symbolic act of solidarity but a reinforcement of the government’s commitment to the welfare of those who have sacrificed for national security. Additionally, his outreach to internally displaced persons (IDP) camps and the distribution of educational materials to young people in these camps highlight his dedication to ensuring that even in the most difficult circumstances, education remains a priority.

Understanding that sustainable development is only possible when young people are economically empowered, Olawande has championed a series of strategic initiatives aimed at job creation, entrepreneurship, and financial independence.

One of his flagship programmes, the Corpreneur Support Scheme, was designed to provide funding support to National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members who have undergone training under the Skills Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) programme. By offering financial support and mentorship, this initiative ensures that young entrepreneurs can transition from training to actual business ownership, thereby reducing unemployment and increasing productivity. Currently, this scheme has been implemented in six states, with plans for nationwide expansion.

At the grassroots level, the Grassroots Youth Entrepreneurship Support Scheme (G-YESS) has been instrumental in supporting small-scale businesses that drive local economies. Recognizing that many young Nigerians struggle with access to capital, the programme provides micro-grants and business support services to help them sustain and expand their enterprises. By prioritizing small business owners, artisans, and informal sector workers, Olawande is fostering an environment where youth entrepreneurship thrives.

His economic interventions extend beyond traditional businesses. In partnership with the Presidential Initiative on CNG (Compressed Natural Gas), he facilitated the provision of 2,000 CNG-powered tricycles to young people in the transportation sector. This initiative not only promotes environmentally friendly transportation but also provides thousands of young Nigerians with a stable source of income, demonstrating his commitment to sustainable and inclusive economic policies.

Youth security and protection have been a central focus of Olawande’s tenure. One of the most pressing issues facing young Nigerians is the harassment and profiling by security agencies. In response, he launched the Young & Secure Initiative in collaboration with the Ministry of Police Affairs. This initiative addresses unlawful profiling, ensuring that young Nigerians are treated with dignity and respect by law enforcement.

As part of this initiative, a Youth Help Desk was established, providing a dedicated channel for young people to report cases of police harassment and receive timely intervention. This move is a significant step toward rebuilding trust between the youth and security agencies, fostering a safer and more inclusive society.

In today’s rapidly evolving world, digital skills are no longer optional; they are essential for economic growth and global competitiveness. Olawande has prioritized digital literacy and vocational training, ensuring that Nigerian youth are not left behind.

A major milestone in this regard is the Nigerian Youth Academy (NIYA), an e-learning platform offering free vocational and digital skills training to young Nigerians. Despite being in its early stages, NIYA has already attracted over 80,000 sign-ups, proving the high demand for quality skills training. The platform is a key component of the “I Youth, 2 Skills” initiative, which aims to bridge the skill gap and connect young job seekers with employers looking for competent professionals.

Additionally, Olawande’s collaboration with the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) led to the launch of the DL4ALL programme, which seeks to train 30 million Nigerians in digital literacy. By equipping young people with cutting-edge technological skills, these programmes are setting the foundation for a digitally empowered workforce capable of driving innovation and economic growth.

Beyond skills and economic opportunities, Olawande has also focused on developing youth-oriented infrastructure that will serve as hubs for empowerment, networking, and support.

Key projects include the Youth House in Abuja, a national headquarters for youth programmes and policymaking. Youth Centres in all 36 states, which will serve as resource hubs for training, mentorship, and business incubation. Green Houses in all 774 Local Government Areas (LGAs), designed to provide agricultural training and entrepreneurship opportunities in rural communities.

By decentralizing youth-focused development projects, Olawande is ensuring that opportunities reach young people in every corner of the country, not just urban centres.

Recognising the importance of youth participation in governance, Olawande has been a key driver behind the National Youth Conference, a platform that will enable young Nigerians to engage directly with policymakers and contribute to national decision-making processes. This conference, set to be formally announced by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, will provide a structured avenue for young voices to be heard on critical national issues.

Through this initiative, Olawande is institutionalising youth engagement, ensuring that policymaking is inclusive and reflective of the realities faced by young Nigerians.

Hon. Ayodele Olawande’s leadership has redefined the landscape of youth development in Nigeria. His approach is not just about implementing policies but about creating lasting solutions that directly impact millions of young Nigerians.

Through economic empowerment, security reforms, digital literacy, grassroots engagement, and infrastructure development, he has laid the groundwork for a generation of self-reliant, skilled, and empowered youth. His tenure is a clear demonstration that youth development is not just a government responsibility but a moral obligation—one that he has taken up with passion, dedication, and unwavering commitment.

As Nigeria navigates the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century, leaders like Ayodele Olawande stand as proof that with the right vision and action, the youth can be the drivers of national progress and transformation.

•Kabir writes from Abuja.