Adedokun Waliyu 
Nigeria’s Minister for Youth Development, Ayodele Olawale, has urged young Nigerians to take advantage of government-backed digital and skills acquisition programmes, saying the initiatives are genuine and beneficial.
Speaking during Channels Television’s Youth Forum focused on skills and knowledge gaps, the minister said many Nigerian youths have not fully felt the impact of government because of limited opportunities and poor engagement.
“These programmes are not fake. The Nigerian Youth Academy is not fake, and the Digital for All initiative is not fake,” he said.
Olawale encouraged youths across the country to register for the programmes and gain practical skills needed in today’s job market.
“Enrol in these programmes, learn, acquire these skills so we can prepare you for the job market we are talking about,” he added.
The minister also stressed the need for curriculum reforms and early exposure to practical and vocational skills.
According to him, the government alone cannot solve Nigeria’s growing skills gap and unemployment challenges.
“A lot has been said about curriculum reforms and catching them young, and these are all true. But with the little knowledge and resources we have, the government cannot do it alone,” he said.
He called for stronger cooperation between the government and the private sector to improve skills development and create more opportunities for young people.
“There should be collaboration between the private sector and the government to drive this forward,” he stated.
Olawale expressed support for ongoing education reforms at both federal and state levels, saying he hopes authorities will focus more on policies that promote skill acquisition and youth empowerment.
Speaking on rural-to-urban migration, the minister said more attention should be given to improving opportunities in rural communities.
“We need to look at what the governors and those at the grassroots are doing,” he said.
He also praised some state governments, especially Akwa Ibom State, for investing in youth development and human capital projects.
“I am proud enough to beat my chest that Akwa Ibom and other state governors are looking into the areas where the youths need them most,” he said.
