Federal Ministry of Youth Development and UNODC Join Forces to Empower Young Nigerians; announces partnership on Nigeria Youth Help Desk
ABUJA, NIGERIA - December 9, 2024 - In a groundbreaking move to combat corruption and empower Nigeria's youth, the Federal Ministry of Youth Development (FMYD) has announced a strategic partnership with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC). This collaboration unveiled on International Anti-Corruption Day, marks a significant step towards harnessing the power of young Nigerians in the fight against corruption.
Corruption continues to cast a long shadow over Nigeria's development, impacting citizens across all demographics. However, its effects are particularly devastating for the nation's youth, who represent a substantial portion of the population. This pervasive issue stifles progress, depriving young people of crucial opportunities in education, employment, public engagement, sports, and access to essential services.
At the heart of this initiative is the Nigeria Youth Help Desk, a platform designed to amplify young voices in the fight against corruption. This initiative aligns with the recommendation, emerging from the July 2024 youth workshop on transparency and integrity in public institutions, which has been swiftly adopted by the Honorable Minister of Youth Development, Mr. Ayodele Wisdom Olawande. "For years, young people have felt marginalized, leading to a loss of trust in government and instances of youth restiveness," stated Minister Olawande. "The Nigeria Youth Help Desk will serve as a dedicated platform to amplify the voices of young people for accountability and building solutions for strong institutions."
Mr. Cheikh Toure, UNODC Nigeria Country Representative, commended the Minister's rapid response to youth recommendations. "Youth are not just the leaders of tomorrow; they are the vanguard of change today. The Nigerian Youth Help Desk empowers the largest demographic to be agents of accountability, bridging the gap between aspiration and action. And I believe by harnessing their energy and potential, we forge a path to justice, security, and progress for all Nigerians. Everyone must embrace this initiative as a catalyst for transformation, recognizing that when we invest in our youth, we invest in the very foundation of our nation's future." He affirmed.
The Help Desk platform comprises several initiatives designed to reach young people across all states, including the Federal Capital Territory. Minister Olawande emphasized the administration's commitment: "With ongoing collaboration with UNODC, we will extend this initiative to local governments. Nigerian youth should access justice wherever they are. The administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is committed to young Nigerians everywhere, regardless of their background."
Youth champions against corruption, Mr Mubarak Idris and Ms Calista I. Njoku expressed appreciation for the commitment shown by FMYD and UNODC. They emphasized the readiness of Nigerian youth to build trust and collaborate more effectively with the Federal Government when provided with meaningful participation opportunities.
For more information, please contact:
Segun Sanusi, Communication officer, Nigeria Youth Help Deskt | email,Tel/What’s App 0814275884
Chioma Ekene-Ugwu, Communications Officer, UNODC | Chioma.ekene-ugwu {at} un {dot} org| Tel/What’s App +234 812 172 6544
