The Federal Government has initiated a major step toward institutionalizing youth development by seeking formal recognition of Youth Work as a distinct and structured profession in Nigeria.
Spearheaded by the Federal Ministry of Youth Development, in collaboration with the University of Abuja, the Nigeria Youth Workers Association (NYWA), and other key stakeholders, the move follows the approval of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR. It also aligns with the resolutions of the National Council on Youth Development, which held its meeting in Maiduguri in December 2024 and endorsed the professionalisation of youth work practice.
A workshop to kick-start the initiative, themed “The Nexus between Professionalisation of Youth Work and the Demographic Dividends,” was held at the University of Abuja.
In his remarks, the Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, cited global models such as the United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia, where youth work is a recognized profession with structured qualifications, regulatory institutions, and defined career pathways.
“In the UK, professional youth workers deliver targeted interventions that promote learning, mental well-being, and social integration,” he stated. He emphasized that these global achievements were results of deliberate investments in youth-focused human capital.
Highlighting the need for such a structure in Nigeria, the Minister explained that the professionalisation agenda will be anchored on three core pillars: Professional Ethics, Standards, and Competency; Academic Pathways for Human Capital Development; and Robust Regulatory Frameworks. To demonstrate commitment, the Minister personally enrolled in the program, becoming a pioneer student.
He also revealed that the Ministry will begin by adopting and adapting the Commonwealth Youth Programme (CYP) Diploma in Youth Work as a foundational training module.
Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Youth Development, Olubunmi Olusanya, noted that youth workers' contributions have long been undervalued. He stressed that establishing proper frameworks will elevate them to certified professionals, improving both their recognition and the overall quality of youth development in Nigeria.
Acting Vice Chancellor of the University of Abuja, Prof. Patricia Lar, praised the Ministry and NYWA for their consistency and commitment. She described the initiative as a milestone that merges policy, academia, and practical engagement. She also disclosed that a high-level meeting would soon be convened to officially launch the professionalisation framework and solidify national consensus.
Chairman of the Federal Civil Service Commission, Prof. Tunji Olaopa, in his keynote address, described the initiative as one aimed at institutionalizing youth work through the development of clear frameworks, academic standards, and empirical knowledge. He noted that this effort will boost the credibility and effectiveness of youth workers, ensuring they are equipped, acknowledged, and empowered within a structured professional domain.
ADEOLA KUNLE
