Youth’s Health Key To Africa’s Future, Says Youth Minister – Independent Newspaper Nigeria

…Creates Youth, Mental Dept

BOLU-OLU ESHO, Akure

The Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, has declared that the health, well-being and innovative spirit of African youths are key to the future of the continent.

He made the declaration while delivering opening remarks at the 2025 Africa Youth Health Summit (AYHS) in Abuja on Saturday.

The Minister emphasised that the “Africa’s greatest asset is its young people, our health, well-being, and innovative spirit.”

He reiterated his commitment to the cause of the youth, stating at the summit that the youth are the foundation of the continent’s future.

Speaking further at the Summit, which was hosted at the United Nations House, Abuja, the Minister told the delegates that youth’s should be taken care of because they are the future of the continent.

He, therefore, declared the creation of a Department of Youth, Health and Psychosocial Affairs in the Ministry of Youth Development.

Olawande explained that the creation of the new department became necessary with a view to placing premium on the health of youth in the country and the continent.

He said: “I am proud to announce the creation of a new Department of Youth and Mental Health in our Ministry.

“This is a bold step to place youth health at the heart of national and continental development.

“Through initiatives such as the Yo! Health Initiative and the newly established Department of Youth Health, Mental and Psychosocial Affairs (YHMPA), the Ministry is working with over 35 partners to strengthen youth-led health action, promote mental health, and align with the African Union’s Agenda 2063 and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

“The summit is about youth as leaders and innovators, not just beneficiaries.

“We count on the expertise of our partners and the creativity of young delegates to shape policies that will drive a healthier and more prosperous Nigeria and Africa.”

At the Summit, the participants from across the continent are expected to co-create solutions, share innovations, and influence health policies, with the goal of building a future where every young African has access to quality healthcare, mental health is prioritized, and no youth potential is wasted.

Among the participating organizations are International Federation of Medical Students’ Associations (IFMSA), International Pharmaceutical Students Federation (IPSF), Africa Centres For Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC), African Union(AU), United Nations, and World Health Organization(WHO).

Moreover, the Minister later received in his office the leadership of the Defence and Police Officers’ Wives Association (DEPOWA), led by Mrs. Oghogho Musa.

He commended the DEPOWA leadership for its efforts in supporting widows, empowering youth, and uplifting families in the barracks.

He described the achievements of the group as inspiring, which made the Minister share personal connection with the group.

Olawande, who disclosed that he grew up in a Police barracks, reaffirmed his commitment to working with DEPOWA to create inclusive, youth-focused initiatives that touch every community.

In her remarks, the DEPOWA leader, Mrs. Oghogho Musa, appreciated the Minister of Youth Development for his readiness to work with the group for deeper success of its goals, which include making life better for both members of the group and youths.