The Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, has called on young Nigerians to tap into the various opportunities being created by the Federal Government under President Bola Tinubu’s administration, saying the country is becoming a place where youths can thrive without necessarily leaving for greener pastures abroad.
Speaking in Akure, Ondo State, after receiving an award from the Deji of Akure, Oba Aladetoyinbo Ogunlade Aladelusi, as part of the monarch’s 10th coronation anniversary, Olawande said the President is laying the foundation for a future where Nigerian youths are globally competitive and less eager to migrate in search of better opportunities, a trend popularly called the ‘Japa syndrome.’
He said the President is making deliberate efforts to create economic and job opportunities through skills development aimed at empowering Nigerian youths.
“The President has done everything to create an environment for youths to thrive,” Olawande said. “The challenges we face today are the results of decades of neglect. Before President Tinubu came into office, young people couldn’t feel the impact of governance. But now, things are changing, structures are being put in place.”
He noted that Tinubu’s administration has launched various initiatives focused on vocational and technical training, entrepreneurship, and the creative industries to help young Nigerians acquire marketable skills and thrive in a competitive environment.
He added that the Ministry of Youth Development is collaborating with agencies and parastatals to deliver training and development programmes that will not only empower youths but also help stabilise the economy.
Olawande urged young Nigerians to take advantage of the opportunities being provided, stressing that the Tinubu administration is investing in the future and creating avenues for meaningful youth engagement across sectors like sports, agriculture, and entertainment.
While addressing the issue of emigration, the Minister said: “We don’t have to stop those who want to travel abroad. Let them go, gain knowledge, and bring it back to contribute to Nigeria’s development.
“But more importantly, young Nigerians should know that they can also thrive here. The government is creating the right atmosphere for that.”
The minister expressed appreciation to the Deji of Akure for honouring him and acknowledged the monarch’s efforts in promoting unity and development in the Akure Kingdom.
