The Federal Government has brought together key stakeholders to address youth poverty, unemployment, and insecurity through the Youth Economic Intervention and Deregulation Programme (YEIDEP).
Speaking at the YEIDEP Implementation Stakeholders Retreat, the Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, highlighted the urgent need to respond to growing economic hardship, violent extremism, and anti-social behavior among young people. He explained that real solutions lie in creating economic opportunities, especially through agriculture and its value chains.
The Minister called on participants to take ownership of the programme’s rollout by defining roles, setting timelines, and ensuring accountability. “YEIDEP is not just another government programme; it is a national mission vital to Nigeria’s peace, stability, and prosperity,” he said.
Represented by his Chief of Staff, Muhammed Abdullahi, Comrade Olawande assured that the Ministry is ready to work with partners to ensure YEIDEP delivers long-term benefits for Nigerian youth and contributes to economic growth.
On financial participation, the Director of Finance and Accounts, Warrens Bekearadebo Augusta, confirmed that 9 out of 20 invited banks have already joined YEIDEP. According to her, the banks are opening accounts, enrolling beneficiaries, and supporting financial operations, while 3 to 4 additional banks are preparing to join.
She revealed that more than 8,000 verified youths have been registered as first-tranche beneficiaries. To ensure transparency, banks are grouped into clusters under strict monitoring and accountability systems.
YEIDEP Coordinator, Comrade Kennedy Iyere, described the programme as a “necessary revolution” for Nigeria’s survival. He stated that the country’s challenges are linked to weak past leadership, not a lack of resources.
Iyere explained that YEIDEP aims to give young people the skills, resources, and opportunities they need to build enterprises, improve resilience, and contribute to national development.