The Minister of State for Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, has reaffirmed the federal government’s commitment to youth empowerment and industrial growth during a visit to Innoson in Nnewi, Anambra State.
Speaking after the visit on Monday, Olawande explained the importance of choosing that particular day, often marked by “sit-at-home” restrictions in the region. “In a region where Mondays are often marked by sit-at-home restrictions, choosing to work, engage, and collaborate on such a day reflects our collective resolve to keep moving forward, no matter the challenges,” he said.
The Minister, accompanied by the Permanent Secretary, Mr. Olubunmi Olusanya, and other officials of the Federal Ministry of Youth Development, was received by the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Innoson, Chief Innocent Chukwuma (OFR). Olawande described Chukwuma as a symbol of humility and dedication to national progress. “His personal presence underscored not just leadership, but a profound sense of national duty,” he stated.
During the tour of the facility, the Minister noted Innoson’s ongoing expansion into Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) vehicle production and conversion, plastic manufacturing, tractor assembly, and rice milling. He emphasized that these areas represent critical opportunities for job creation, industrial growth, and youth empowerment.
“I witnessed the living proof of Nigerian innovation and resilience. What Chief Innocent Chukwuma has built is more than a company, it is a statement of belief that Nigerians can produce excellence. Together, we will expand that belief into a nationwide reality,” Olawande said.
The visit also highlighted Innoson’s investment in human capital through its technical training and apprenticeship programmes. Olawande interacted with several young Nigerians who have benefited from these initiatives, including two young women trained as auto-technicians. One of them continues to work within the company, while the other has successfully established her own auto workshop. “Their stories beautifully capture the transformative power of skills and opportunity,” the Minister noted.
As part of the outcomes of the visit, Olawande disclosed that the Federal Ministry of Youth Development is working with Innoson to establish a partnership that will expand youth training, apprenticeship, and enterprise development across the country. The initiative will particularly target the automotive value chain and related sectors, creating more income-generating opportunities for young people.
The Minister also used the visit to strengthen collaboration with Anambra State. He held discussions with the State Commissioner for Youth Development, Hon. Patrick Agha Mba, on joint strategies to expand the “1 Youth, 2 Skills” campaign. According to Olawande, the campaign aims to equip Nigerian youths with multiple practical skills that promote self-reliance and productivity.
“We are committed to equipping more young Nigerians with practical, income-generating skills that drive self-reliance and productivity across the country,” Olawande said.