Ayodele Olawande Advocates for Impactful Youth Programs

During the 2026 Annual Ministerial Retreat of the Ministry of Youth Development held in Abuja, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, the Minister of Youth Development, urged the ministry to evaluate its success based on the transformation of lives rather than the number of programs organized. He highlighted the importance of assessing government interventions by their effectiveness in creating jobs, equipping youth with skills, expanding business opportunities, and improving access to funding and markets.

Olawande linked the ministry's focus on measurable outcomes to the National Youth Data Bank, advocating for evidence-based policymaking. He called for stronger collaboration with government agencies and stakeholders to ensure tangible results.

Dr. Maryam Ismaila Keshinro, the Permanent Secretary, represented by Mr. Akin Olanipekun, emphasized the need for measurable deliverables and timely reporting. Brigadier General Olakunle Nafiu, Director-General of the NYSC, supported the retreat's goals and stressed the importance of skills acquisition and entrepreneurship for youth participation in the economy.