Reaffirmation of Commitment to Peace in the Niger Delta by Minister of Youth Development
Nigeria’s Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, reasserted the Federal Government’s dedication to fostering peace and security in the Niger Delta during a multi-stakeholder consultative meeting in Abuja. The gathering aimed to address security challenges through community-driven initiatives and emphasized collaboration among key stakeholders, including youth and women’s groups. The event showcased findings from relevant projects and reinforced commitment to supporting peacebuilding efforts in the region.
In a recent One-Day Multi-Stakeholder Consultative Engagement on the Niger Delta, Nigeria’s Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to fostering lasting peace and security in the region. The event, held in Abuja, gathered crucial stakeholders including government representatives, civil society organizations, and youth groups, aiming to address ongoing security challenges.
Minister Olawande, represented by Mr. Obinna Nwaka, the Director General of the Committee of Youth on Mobilization and Sensitization (CYMS), praised the organizing entities for facilitating a dialogue involving diverse participants, viewing it as a vital step toward achieving sustained peace in the Niger Delta. He emphasized that local engagement and community-driven strategies are essential in confronting persistent security issues and criminal activities.
The consultative meeting showcased findings from the project titled “Community-Centered Approach to Transforming Criminality and Violence in the Niger Delta,” while exploring potential strategies for promoting peace within the region. The Minister highlighted the progress made in addressing these challenges and urged stakeholders to cooperate on solutions that resonate with local realities and global peacebuilding methods.
“This engagement provides an invaluable opportunity to exchange knowledge, ideas, and locally relevant strategies to combat violence and criminality in the Niger Delta,” stated Comrade Olawande, emphasizing the pivotal roles of youth and women affected by the conflict in fostering community change. He vowed that the Federal Ministry of Youth Development would support the initiatives that arise from the discussions, reinforcing a collective commitment to transforming the Niger Delta into a symbol of peace and prosperity.
Furthermore, Minister Olawande expressed solidarity with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, particularly regarding initiatives focused on security, job creation, and education in the Niger Delta. He assured participants that the Ministry would back the President’s efforts through programs like the National Integrated Youth Agency (NIYA) and the Nigerian Youth Investment Fund (NYIF).
In conclusion, Comrade Ayodele Olawande called upon all stakeholders to unite with a common aim, ensuring that the outcomes lead to practical and effective solutions beneficial for the Niger Delta. This consultative meeting underscores the ongoing endeavors aimed at establishing a peaceful and secure future, with an emphasis on empowering youth to play a critical role in the region’s development.
In summary, the Minister of Youth Development reiterated the Nigerian government’s commitment to achieving lasting peace in the Niger Delta through collaboration with diverse stakeholders. The consultative engagement emphasized community-driven solutions, the vital role of youth and women in conflict transformation, and the alignment of local strategies with global peacebuilding practices. The session reflects ongoing efforts to empower the Niger Delta community and tackle pressing security challenges effectively.
Original Source: von.gov.ng
