The Federal Ministry of Youth Development has formally assumed control of the Agadagba Skill Acquisition Centre in Ese Odo Local Government Area of Ondo State, marking a significant step toward advancing youth empowerment and access to vocational training in underserved communities.
The takeover reflects the Ministry’s commitment to expanding skills-based education and economic opportunities for young Nigerians, particularly in riverine areas, aligning with the Federal Government’s broader goal of equipping youths for sustainable livelihoods and national development.
At the official handover ceremony in Abuja, the Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, unveiled plans to transform the facility into a National Youth Camp. The proposed upgrade will expand the centre’s scope to include leadership training, digital innovation, entrepreneurship, civic engagement, and community service.
“This camp will serve as a rallying point for youth across the Southwest and Niger Delta, especially from local communities who deserve equal access to national opportunities,” Olawande said.
He also announced that the Ministry would introduce modern vocational programmes, improve infrastructure, and deploy qualified personnel to ensure the Centre functions effectively under its new mandate. He assured stakeholders—especially the host community, traditional leaders, and youth—that the facility would be managed transparently and used purposefully.
The Minister praised the Minister of Regional Development, Engr. Abubakar Momoh, for facilitating the inter-ministerial collaboration, calling it a testament to national unity and shared commitment to youth advancement.
“This partnership demonstrates what is possible when we work together for inclusive growth and youth empowerment. We are determined to make the Agadagba National Youth Camp a centre of excellence,” Olawande stated.
Engr. Momoh reaffirmed the Federal Government’s dedication to youth development and urged the Youth Ministry to transform the centre into a dynamic hub for innovation, entrepreneurship, and skill-building.
He also disclosed that the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and other development partners are expected to support the project, describing the handover as symbolic of placing the centre in the hands of a ministry focused on investing in the future of Nigerian youth.
ADEOLA KUNLE
