By Goodluck Ikiebe.
The Nigerian government has been presented with an action plan for implementation as the maiden edition of the National Youth Conference ends in Abuja with about 34 states of the federation, including the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, major youth organizations and agencies participating in the programme.
The Minister of Youth and Sports Development, Mr Sunday Dare, received the plan on behalf of the government at the Velodrome of the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja.
A statement by the Director Press and Public Relations in the ministry, Mr Mohammed Manga, quoted the Sports Minister in a communique as saying that the event was a “New dawn for the Nigerian Youth”.
Mr Sunday Dare assured that Government will look into the recommendations and action points emanating from the programme with a view to expediting action within the framework policy of this administration.
Mr Dare, who acknowledged that young Nigerians are the most strategic asset for economic strength, growth and development of the nation, explained that, this is the reason the present administration came up with the initiative of the N75 billion Nigeria Youth Investment Fund(NYIF) to boost employability and creative skills that will enable them transition seamlessly into professionals and nation builders.
He assured that the commitment of the present administration to youth development remains consistent and unwavering in bringing the youth of this nation on board as learners and decision makers, who will do the country proud now and in the future.
Dare, who applauded the participants for taking advantage of the opportunity given them by the Federal Government for engagement, commended relevant government agencies, all stakeholders, private sector partners and the Nigerian youths in particular for their active and robust contributions at the conference.
He added that, this will not only promote youth inclusiveness in government policy decision, but also in the area of politics and governance, security, employment opportunities, education, skills acquisition, empowerment, innovation and self-development.
Our Correspondent reports that some of the action plans contained in the communiqué presented to the Federal Government for consideration and implementation at the end of the youth conference include; inclusion in politics, nation building, peace, unity and security, utilization of the soft power of sports, entertainment and creativity, enhancing education as well as creating the enabling environment for innovation and technology for youth development.
