Minister for Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening youth-focused programmes after holding a strategic meeting with the Directors General of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) and the Citizenship and Leadership Training Centre (CLTC).
Speaking after the meeting, Olawande said, “I just concluded a meeting with the Directors General of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) and the Citizenship and Leadership Training Centre (CLTC), the two agencies under the supervision of the Federal Ministry of Youth Development to strengthen synergy and cooperation.”
He explained that the discussions centred on aligning initiatives with the ministry’s flagship programmes while ensuring greater cooperation between the two agencies. According to him, this will help avoid duplication of efforts and create stronger impact across the country.
“We agreed on the need for closer cooperation, alignment of programmes with the Ministry’s flagship initiatives, and joint efforts to avoid duplication while maximizing impact,” he stated.
The Minister stressed the importance of the NYSC in mobilising corps members as agents of innovation, entrepreneurship, and national development, while also pointing to the role of the CLTC in promoting values, leadership, and civic responsibility among Nigerian youths. He added that the two agencies will co-create initiatives that enhance employability and contribute to nation-building.
Following the meeting, Olawande joined young people at Monoliza, venue of the Independence Day Youth Celebration, to mark Nigeria’s 65th anniversary. He described the celebration as a symbol of unity and a reminder of the pivotal role young Nigerians play in shaping the country’s future.
“Beyond the festivity, the gathering was a powerful reminder of the central role of youth in shaping our nation’s future,” he said.
He emphasised that the celebration amplified youth voices as key drivers of peace, innovation, and progress, and underscored the importance of building stronger partnerships with youth development institutions.