SHETTIMA PLEDGES FG SUPPORT AS MTN FOUNDATION, UNODC COMMIT TO YOUTH DEVELOPMENT IN NIGERIA

SHETTIMA PLEDGES FG SUPPORT AS MTN FOUNDATION, UNODC COMMIT TO YOUTH DEVELOPMENT IN NIGERIA Vice President Kashim Shettima has pledged the Federal Government’s continued support for initiatives aimed at safeguarding and empowering Nigeria’s young population, as the MTN Foundation and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) renewed commitments to youth-focused development programmes. The collaboration was highlighted during a high-level engagement focused on strengthening interventions in education, skills acquisition, drug prevention, and youth empowerment across the country. Speaking at the event, Vice President Shettima emphasised that the administration remains committed to policies under the Renewed Hope Agenda designed to create opportunities for young Nigerians. He noted that the country’s youthful population represents a critical asset for national growth, stressing that investments in education, innovation, and social protection remain central to government priorities.

Shettima assured that the Federal Government would continue to support partnerships that align with national development goals, particularly those targeting vulnerable and underserved youth communities. The MTN Foundation reaffirmed its long-standing commitment to youth empowerment through education, digital skills development, and community upliftment programmes. The Foundation highlighted ongoing initiatives aimed at improving access to learning resources, promoting entrepreneurship, and bridging the digital divide among young Nigerians. Officials said the partnership with government and international organisations is intended to scale up impact and ensure broader reach across all geopolitical zones. The UNODC also reiterated its support for Nigeria’s efforts to combat drug abuse and related social challenges affecting young people. The agency stressed the importance of preventive education, rehabilitation programmes, and community based interventions to reduce vulnerability among adolescents and young adults. It noted that addressing drug-related challenges is essential to building a productive and secure future workforce for the country. Stakeholders at the meeting agreed that coordinated efforts between government, development partners, and the private sector are crucial to addressing the complex challenges facing Nigeria’s youth. They called for stronger implementation frameworks, improved funding mechanisms, and enhanced monitoring of ongoing programmes to ensure measurable impact. The engagement forms part of broader efforts under the Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritises human capital development, job creation, and social inclusion. Officials say the administration is intensifying partnerships with local and international organisations to expand opportunities for young Nigerians in education, technology, agriculture, and creative industries. With commitments from government, MTN Foundation, and UNODC, stakeholders expressed optimism that strengthened collaboration will help build a more resilient and productive youth population capable of driving Nigeria’s long-term development.