FG is committed to supporting youth engagement

FG is committed to supporting youth engagement

Ayodeji Ajikan

The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to constructive youth engagement and initiatives to improve the well-being and development of Nigerian students.

This followed a meeting between the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation and the leadership of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) on Wednesday in Abuja.

The assurance was given by the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Dr. Bernard Doro, receiving the President of NANS, Comrade Olushola Oladoja, at the Ministry headquarters, together with the members of the delegation of the association that organizes the conferences.

The minister commended the student body for embracing dialogue, consultation and institutional commitment in addressing issues affecting students across the country, stressing that the Federal Government remains committed to promoting youth inclusion, educational advancement and peaceful participation among Nigerian youths.

This is read in a statement signed by the director of information and public relations, Janet McDickson Noah.

Responding to the requests presented by the delegation in view of the next national students’ congress, the Minister assured the students that their proposals will be examined in line with established government procedures.

“We appreciate the proactive commitment from the Nigerian student leadership.

“Your requests will be examined accordingly and may go through the necessary administrative and bureaucratic processes, after which appropriate responses will be communicated as quickly as possible,” the Minister said.

He further noted that sustainable national development can only thrive when youth are meaningfully involved and encouraged to contribute positively to nation-building, reiterating the Ministry’s readiness to collaborate with responsible youth-led organizations and relevant stakeholders.

Earlier, the Director, Department of Social Development, Valentine Ezulu, welcomed the delegation on behalf of the Ministry and reiterated government’s commitment to maintaining cordial and productive relationships with Nigerian students and youth-focused institutions.

Ezulu said the Ministry recognizes the strategic role played by students in nation-building and social development, adding that the government remains willing to work closely with student leaders to ensure a better future for young Nigerians.

Speaking on behalf of the delegation, the President of NANS, Comrade Olushola Oladoja, briefed the Minister on preparations for the association’s next national convention which is expected to attract student leaders and representatives of tertiary institutions across the country.

According to him, the convention will provide a platform for deliberations on issues affecting students, leadership transition activities, educational progress and youth participation in governance.

Oladoja said the current leadership of NANS has prioritized dialogue and consultation in resolving student concerns, working under the principles of “4Cs”, consultation, consolidation, communication before confrontation.

He also praised the existing relationship between student leaders and government institutions, particularly in areas related to educational stability, student well-being and campus safety.

The NANS delegation used the visit to seek the Ministry’s partnership and support for the successful organization of the convention in Abuja, expressing optimism that continued collaboration between government institutions and organized student bodies would strengthen national cohesion and promote constructive participation of youth in governance.