JCI, youth ministry partner on youth empowerment

By Idris Temidayo

The Junior Chamber International (JCI) Nigeria, the leading youth organisation, has entered into a partnership with the federal ministry of youth development to empower Nigerian youth and accelerate national development.

Oluwatoyin Atanda, JCI Nigeria national president, announced the partnership after a meeting with Ayodele Olawande, the minister of youth development, in Abuja on Friday.

Atanda said the meeting marked a significant milestone in re-establishing a fruitful partnership with the ministry to empower the teeming Nigerian youth and drive national development.

She noted that the renewed collaboration with the federal ministry of youth development aligns with partnerships, one of the eight strategic pillars of the ELV8 leadership philosophy of the 2025 JCI Nigeria team.

Highlighting the key outcomes of the meeting, Atanda revealed that the minister signed a formal document committing to promoting International Human Duties Day, earning him the distinguished title of International Duty Ambassador.

She added that the minister pledged his support for JCI Nigeria’s national convention (NATCON), scheduled to take place in Akure, his hometown.

Atanda assured the minister that JCI Nigeria remains committed to advancing the ministry’s goals and fostering a collaborative environment for youth empowerment.

She stated that the renewed partnership marks a new chapter of impactful initiatives designed to unlock the potential of Nigerian youth and contribute meaningfully to national development.

The minister expressed appreciation to JCI Nigeria for its unwavering commitment to youth development and national progress.

He promised to collaborate with the organisation in line with the ministry’s vision of building a nation of renewed hope through youth empowerment by unlocking pathways for every Nigerian youth to succeed.

Commenting on the JCI Ten Outstanding Young Persons (TOYP) Award, he lauded the programme’s integrity and transparency.

The TOYP Award celebrates exceptional young Nigerians who contribute to society.
Acknowledging the pressing challenge of youth unemployment, the minister emphasised the importance of collaboration and empowerment.

He expressed strong support for the ELV8 programme and called for collective action to tackle unemployment.

The minister also sought JCI Nigeria’s collaboration for its flagship “one youth, two skills initiative.