The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), led by its Country Representative, Mr. Cheikh Touré, paid a working visit to the Honourable Commissioner for Youth Development at his office in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State.

The engagement focused on deepening collaboration to advance youth priorities in the state, with a particular emphasis on implementing the Bayelsa State Youth Policy, the first of its kind. It provided an opportunity to reflect on ongoing youth development efforts, identify emerging needs, and align on strategies to scale impact through inclusive and coordinated action.

Discussions explored ways to strengthen the enabling environment for youth participation, expand access to skills development and livelihood opportunities, and promote youth-led solutions in governance, peacebuilding, and community development. The implementation of the Youth Policy was identified as a key area of partnership, particularly in mobilising technical support and fostering multi-sectoral cooperation.

The Honourable Commissioner expressed appreciation for the visit and reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to working closely with development partners and young people to deliver tangible results. He emphasised that the youth of Bayelsa are not just beneficiaries of policy but co-creators of a more inclusive and prosperous future.

This engagement marks a significant step forward in building a Bayelsa where every young person is empowered, supported, and allowed to thrive.