July 3, 2025 – The Honourable Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, has charged staff of the Federal Ministry of Youth Development, FMYD, to embrace innovation, collaboration, and accountability in the execution of their duties. This call came during a town hall meeting held today with ministry staff and stakeholders across the youth sector.
While commending the staff for their dedication and thanking all contributors in the sector, the Minister emphasized that the time has come to move beyond activities that merely look productive.
“We must focus our energy not just on activity, but on meaningful impact,” he stated. “The President continues to stress the importance of the youth sector, and we must collectively strive for measurable achievements.”
He also drew attention to the Ministry’s improved performance as recorded in the latest quarterly evaluation by the Central Delivery Coordination Unit (CDCU), under the leadership of Mrs. Adiza Bala. The Ministry’s performance rating has officially moved past the ‘good’ category — a first in its recent history.
“For the first time, our Ministry has moved beyond the ‘good’ category,” the Minister noted. “The CDCU’s last quarterly evaluation reflects the overwhelming efforts made by all of us. However, this is not the time to relax. I urge all directors and staff to critically assess the areas where we are still falling short.”
The Minister went on to stress that delivering results for Nigerian youth must remain the central focus. He described innovation as essential to achieving the Ministry’s 2025 goals, urging all staff to align their work with national development targets.
“The youth of this nation are watching. We must deliver on every promise. Innovation is no longer optional, it is the only way forward,” he said. “My goals for 2025 can only be achieved with your collaboration and support. Our work must speak louder than our names. I deeply value your commitment, competence, and character. Together, we can leave a legacy that matters.”
Also present at the session was Permanent Secretary Olubunmi Olusanya, who described the gathering as a timely checkpoint as the Ministry enters the second half of the 2025 calendar year. He praised the interactive nature of the dialogue and the opportunity it provided to reassess the Ministry’s strategies.
“The interactive dialogue with the Honourable Minister offered critical insight into the Ministry’s performance thus far and outlined clear expectations for the months ahead,” he said. “His guidance will be instrumental as we recalibrate strategies, align national youth priorities, and strengthen internal collaboration across departments.”
In other news, FG, DBN have launched N100m grant for 3MTT Fellows’ Startups.