Ayodele Olawande, Minister of Youth Development, today received in audience several organizations working in health and humanitarian sectors, alongside youth-led associations seeking collaborations to strengthen their capacity to serve young people and their members.
In a statement, Olawande said, “Our shared ideals were reflected in the forward-looking conversations that we had,” noting that the discussions centered on improving youth development, humanitarian action, and health support systems in Nigeria.
Addressing the Association for Students’ Social Welfare Nigeria, the Minister pointed to the Student Loan Fund as a major commitment of government toward students’ welfare.
He encouraged the association to work closely with government to “sensitize their members on all youth-focused interventions of the Government, and continue to collaborate for greater impact.”
Olawande also commended the Okapi Children Cancer Foundation for what he described as “an impressive effort” in protecting the health of children and young adults battling cancer. He pledged ongoing support for the foundation to enhance its work and impact in the fight against childhood cancer in Nigeria.
For the Pan African Humanitarian Leadership Award delegation, the Minister praised their contribution to promoting humanitarian values. He said their activities would “inspire and encourage more individuals and organisations to rededicate themselves to the service of humanity,” stressing the importance of stronger humanitarian leadership.
The Minister also met with the Niger Delta Progressive Youth Leaders Foundation, where discussions focused on peace, unity, and youth empowerment in the Niger Delta. According to him, “It is important to build bridges of unity, advance peace, and empower the youth of the Niger Delta to contribute meaningfully to national development.”
He assured the group of the Ministry’s readiness to support initiatives that foster inclusiveness, skills development, and positive youth engagement across the region.