Nigerian Youths Get Lifeline in FG Empowerment Drive

By Sharon Zachariah

Editor

Sharon Zachariah

Posted: May 22, 2025 at 10:46 pm, Updated: May 22, 2025 at 10:46 pm

Nigerian Youths Get Lifeline in FG Empowerment Drive

Nigerian youths are at the center of a powerful new movement led by the federal government to transform lives and tackle rising unemployment and radicalisation. In a bold step, the government has launched the Youth Economic Intervention and De-Radicalisation Programme (YEIDEP), a large-scale effort that has already attracted more than five million applications from across the country.

The Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, praised the initiative during the inauguration of the project’s implementation committee in Abuja. Represented by Joseph Oluwole, Director of General Services at the ministry, Mr. Olawande said the programme represents a clear and strategic vision for youth empowerment and national development.

“We are not just launching a programme,” Mr. Olawande said. “We are igniting a movement for youth transformation, innovation, and national development.”

The goal is to reach young Nigerians with real economic opportunities. Many youths face daily struggles with poverty, joblessness, and lack of direction. YEIDEP aims to give them a different path—one filled with promise and purpose.

Mr. Olawande said the programme reflects the administration’s serious commitment to uplifting young people and bringing them into Nigeria’s economic growth plan. He urged the newly formed committee to work with integrity and stay focused on results.

“Your work on this committee will impact the lives of millions,” he said. “The integrity, transparency, and efficiency with which you execute your duties will define the legacy of this intervention.”

The committee is responsible for making sure the programme runs smoothly and reaches those who need it most. Their work includes planning, coordination, and ongoing monitoring.

Kennedy Iyere, the programme’s coordinator, thanked the minister for believing in the vision behind YEIDEP. He said the idea came from a strong desire to create lasting opportunities for Nigerian youths who are often left behind.

According to Mr. Iyere, youths make up nearly 65 per cent of Nigeria’s population, estimated at over 240 million. He said the nation cannot move forward unless this huge group is included in economic activities.

“Youth hold the key to Nigeria’s future,” Mr. Iyere said. “If we invest in their potential, the country will reap the benefits for generations.”

He explained that YEIDEP is not a short-term campaign. It’s a deep, long-term investment in the human capital of the country. By targeting the right areas, like entrepreneurship, innovation, and peace-building, the programme could shift the future of Nigeria in a meaningful way.

Olubunmi Olusanya, the permanent secretary of the Ministry of Youth Development, also spoke at the event. Represented by Anthony Chukwuka, Director of Planning, Research and Statistics, she described the programme’s practical benefits.

According to her, YEIDEP will offer direct support to youth-led businesses, especially those in agriculture and agro-allied industries. The plan includes enterprise grants, technical help, business training, and ongoing management support.

“We are proud to report that more than five million applications have already been received,” Ms. Olusanya stated. “It’s an unprecedented demonstration of Nigerian youths’ eagerness to contribute to national development.”

The number of applicants shows just how hungry young Nigerians are for real change. Many have big dreams, but no tools or support to chase them. This programme could be a lifeline.

Experts say unemployment is one of the biggest reasons young people fall into crime or extremist ideologies. Without jobs, they lose hope. YEIDEP aims to replace that despair with skills, income, and purpose.

By giving young people access to training and funds, the government wants to build a generation of builders, creators, and leaders. The programme will focus on real-life impact, helping young Nigerians build sustainable businesses and peaceful communities.

Mr. Iyere added that the YEIDEP team will work hard to ensure every step of the process is transparent and fair. He said they understand that young people have been failed in the past by similar efforts. This time, he assured, things will be different.

“This isn’t just about handing out money,” he explained. “It’s about building a full support system around youth entrepreneurs—from training to mentorship and beyond.”

The initiative also targets the issue of radicalisation, especially in conflict-prone areas. Government officials believe that helping youths gain economic independence will make them less vulnerable to extremist groups.

YEIDEP is not a stand-alone programme. It is part of the federal government’s broader youth development strategy. Officials said it will work closely with other national policies to ensure alignment and efficiency.

The excitement among young Nigerians is already growing. Across social media, many have shared their hope that YEIDEP will finally be the game-changer they’ve been waiting for.

One applicant, 24-year-old Yusuf Musa from Kano, said, “I applied because I believe this could help me grow my small poultry business. I’ve been trying on my own, but it’s very hard. This programme gives me hope.”

Another applicant, Grace Nnaji, 22, from Enugu, said, “I studied agriculture but have no job. If they give me a chance, I will start my own farm and even employ others.”

Their voices echo the hopes of millions of Nigerian youths. For many, YEIDEP is more than a programme—it’s a chance at a future.

Officials say the selection process will be merit-based, and each application will be reviewed fairly. The committee also promised to provide updates regularly so applicants can follow the progress.