The Minister for Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, has launched the Technical Working Group (TWG) for the Nigerian Youth Employment Action Plan (NiYEAP), as part of the government’s efforts to create jobs and empower young Nigerians.

The launch took place at the Radisson Blue Hotel in Ikeja, Lagos, and was attended by top officials from the Ministry, including the Permanent Secretary, Mr. Olubunmi Olusanya. Representatives from international organizations like GIZ, the International Labour Organization (ILO), UNICEF, and the UN were also present.

In his speech, Minister Olawande explained that the TWG, which will be led by the private sector, would include members from the government and development partners. The goal is to create a sustainable plan for youth employment by combining efforts from all sectors.

The Nigerian Youth Employment Action Plan, which was launched in 2021, focuses on four main areas: improving employability, supporting entrepreneurship, creating new job opportunities, and ensuring equal access to opportunities. The plan also highlights important sectors like the digital economy, agriculture, and manufacturing for potential job creation.

Minister Olawande stressed that the TWG’s work is aimed at not only creating jobs but also advocating for youth-friendly policies. He also emphasized that the initiative would help create a lasting legacy of prosperity for Nigerian youth. He encouraged all stakeholders to collaborate in achieving the plan’s goals and creating a better future for the country’s young people.