The Honorable Commissioner for Youth Development in Bayelsa State, Mr. Alfred Kemepado, proudly represented the state at the 7th National Council on Youth Development (NCYD), held from Monday, December 9th, to Thursday, December 12th, 2024, in Maiduguri, Borno State. The event, themed “Transforming and Repositioning the Nigerian Youth to Thrive and Catalyze Economic Development,” brought together policymakers, stakeholders, and experts in youth development from across the nation to discuss and advance actionable strategies for empowering Nigerian youth.
In his opening address, the Governor of Borno State, Babagana Umara Zulum, captured the essence of the event when he stated, “The future belongs to the youths that can dream, and the government must support that dream.” His words were a rallying call for increased investment in initiatives that empower young people to pursue their aspirations while contributing to national development.
The Council, hosted by the Honorable Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, was structured around several technical meetings and thematic clusters designed to address critical aspects of youth empowerment. Discussions across these areas culminated in a series of recommendations that were consolidated into a communique adopted by the Council on the final day. The communique underscores a shared vision of equipping every Nigerian youth to achieve their full potential, particularly through skill development, entrepreneurship, and inclusive decision-making.
As part of Bayelsa State’s delegation, Mr. Kemepado emphasized the state government’s commitment to aligning its youth development agenda with national objectives. He highlighted ongoing initiatives within Bayelsa, such as skill acquisition programs, youth entrepreneurship hubs, and mentorship schemes designed to position young people as catalysts for economic growth.
“The youths are the backbone of our future,” Mr. Kemepado stated during one of the technical sessions. “We must collectively invest in their potential, ensuring they are equipped to thrive in a rapidly changing world while contributing meaningfully to Nigeria’s economic transformation.” The Commissioner also noted the unique challenges faced by Bayelsa’s youth, particularly in addressing environmental and economic hurdles linked to its oil-dependent economy. He called for increased collaboration between the federal government, private sector, and international development partners to tailor solutions for the Niger Delta region.
Mr. Alfred Kemepado and the Bayelsa delegation’s participation at the 7th NCYD reaffirms the state’s unwavering commitment to youth empowerment. Together with other stakeholders, Bayelsa is poised to harness the potential of its vibrant youth population to drive sustainable economic development and build a brighter future for all.
