Kwara State Government and the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) have collaborated to draft policies for youth development in the state.
This was announced by the State Commissioner for Youth Development, Shehu Ndanusa, at the end of a two-day Technical Validation Meeting on the Kwara State Youth Policy, organized by the ministry and UNFPA in Ilorin.
Ndanusa described the collaboration as a milestone for the state, saying it will create a blueprint to support, develop, and involve young people in the country’s growth.
He emphasized the vital role of youth, referring to them as both the present and future of any nation.
Ndanusa stated that the document will set priorities, directions, and programs for youth development.
Additionally, the State Commissioner for Planning and Economic Development, Dr. Mary Arinde, called the policy a “declaration and commitment to the priorities, directions, and practical support that a country intends to provide for the development of its young men and women.”
Arinde noted that the initiative is a significant milestone to shape the voices and potential of youth in the state.
She said the drafting of the policy demonstrates the government’s clarity and determination to support, develop, and involve young people in growth across all sectors.
The commissioner also stated that through dialogue and consensus, the aspirations, concerns, and challenges of youth would be amplified.
“The youth policy is a commitment to empower, include, and create opportunities in employment, innovation, health, and job creation,” she said.
Arinde praised Gov. AbdulRahman Abdulrazaq for his youth-friendly programs across the state.
In a goodwill message, Mrs. Gloria Enueze, UNFPA’s Sexual Reproductive Health Specialist, explained that the Youth Policy would set priorities, directions, and programs for youth development.
Enueze added that UNFPA’s adolescent and youth strategy focuses on promoting rights, health, and development, specifically targeting the empowerment of young people.
It was reported that adolescent health and development are key foundations for a country’s economic growth and political stability.
