The Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, has reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to promoting youth development and economic empowerment through strategic partnerships and entrepreneurship initiatives.
Olawande gave the assurance during a courtesy visit by the organisers of the Young Leaders Entrepreneurship Conference, led by the Executive Director of Yolechub, Tosin Adesile, at his office in Abuja.
The minister also pledged the ministry’s support for the 10th edition of the conference.
The team briefed the minister on the impact and objectives of the annual conference, which focuses on equipping young entrepreneurs with business opportunities, mentorship and access to industry leaders.
Speaking during the meeting, the minister commended the organisers for sustaining the initiative over the last 10 years, describing the achievement as a reflection of dedication to youth empowerment and entrepreneurship development.
“Organising an event consistently for 10 years is not an easy task. This reflects commitment, passion and dedication to youth empowerment and entrepreneurship development,” Olawande said.
He disclosed that the ministry recently secured a partnership with Meta aimed at strengthening digital skills, entrepreneurship, content creation, innovation and access to global opportunities for young Nigerians.
According to him, the ministry is ready to collaborate with Yolechub not only for the upcoming conference but also in other areas that would promote youth development and economic empowerment.
“We are ready to partner with Yolechub for the annual conference and explore other areas of collaboration that will benefit young people across the country,” he added.
Responding, Adesile appreciated the minister for what he described as his commitment to creating opportunities and expanding access for Nigerian youths.
He noted that the appointment of young people into leadership positions in government was already yielding positive results.
“We are happy that the President entrusted the Ministry of Youth Development to a youthful and energetic leader, and that is responsible for the giant strides we are witnessing in the ministry today,” he said.
Adesile also thanked the minister for pledging support for the conference and future collaborations.
Also present during the visit was the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Youth Development, Maryam Ismaila Keshinro.
The 10th edition of the conference is themed, “Empowering Young Entrepreneurs with Fintech Platforms and SME Financing to Boost Startups for a Smarter Digital Economy.”
The event is scheduled to hold on June 4, 2026, at the National Open University Conference Hall, Central Business District, Abuja.
