The Federal Ministry of Youth Development says improved funding, modern infrastructure, and stronger partnerships are needed to enhance national youth programmes and expand economic opportunities for young Nigerians.
During visits to the leadership of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) and the Citizenship and Leadership Training Centre (CLTC), the Permanent Secretary, Dr Maryam Keshinro, said both institutions play a central role in preparing young people for work, enterprise development, and leadership.
She noted that upgraded facilities and increased collaboration with private sector actors and development partners would help the NYSC and CLTC deliver practical skills, entrepreneurship exposure, and employability support at scale.
Read also,
- FG presents 2026 budget, promises stability, SME growth, shared prosperity
- World Bank approves $500m financing to boost Nigerian MSMEs
- Zulum launches N1bn empowerment scheme to support youth technicians
- AfDB approves $22m blue economy project to support fisheries SMEs
- Eko Fiesta 2025 to boost SMEs, youth enterprise in Lagos
The NYSC Director-General, Brigadier General Olakunle Oluseye Nafiu, highlighted rising enrolment and limited resources, adding that more support is required to meet current demand and sustain the Scheme’s role in workforce readiness and national cohesion.
The CLTC Director-General, Rinsola Abiola, reaffirmed the Centre’s focus on leadership and civic responsibility, while expressing readiness to deepen cooperation with the Ministry.
If implemented, the Ministry’s push for increased investment is expected to strengthen youth capacity, broaden SME participation, and create a more competitive environment for enterprise development nationwide.
