The Federal Government has signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Gender Mobile Initiative to strengthen efforts in gender-based violence prevention, youth engagement, mental health support, and capacity building — underscoring its commitment to holistic youth development.
Speaking at the signing ceremony in Abuja, the Honourable Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, noted that the partnership comes at a crucial time, following the recent approval by the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation for the creation of two new departments focused specifically on the mental health of Nigerian youth.
Represented by the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Mr. Olubunmi Olusanya, the Minister stressed that youth development should not only focus on employment and empowerment but must prioritise mental wellbeing. “When they are psychologically sound, then other things like employment and empowerment follow,” Olusanya stated.
He described the MoU as timely, adding that the Ministry will develop the necessary policies and frameworks to strengthen the new departments and ensure effective collaboration with Gender Mobile Initiative to achieve its objectives. “I can assure you that every aspect of this agreement will be implemented for the wellbeing of Nigerian youth because they are the ones who will continue to uplift the country where today’s leaders stop,” he affirmed.
In her remarks, Barr. Omowumi Ogunrotimi, who led the Gender Mobile Initiative team, said the partnership presents an opportunity to amplify the voices of youth, especially those whose experiences have been silenced by stigma or structural barriers.
“At Gender Mobile Initiative, we have always believed that the safety, agency, and leadership of young people are non-negotiable pillars for national transformation. This partnership with the Federal Ministry of Youth Development affirms that belief and builds a platform for action,” Ogunrotimi said.
Also speaking, the Director of Education and Youth Development in the Ministry, Mr. Kabiru Mohammed, pledged the Ministry’s full cooperation with Gender Mobile Initiative to promote the wellbeing of Nigerian youth and contribute meaningfully to national development.
ADEOLA KUNLE
