The Honourable Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, alongside the Permanent Secretary, Mr. Olubunmi Olusanya, and senior officials of the Ministry, has paid a working visit to Innoson Vehicle Manufacturing (IVM) in Nnewi, Anambra State, to strengthen collaboration on youth industrial training and job creation.
The delegation was received by Chief Innocent Chukwuma (OFR), Chairman and CEO of the Innoson Group, whose leadership and commitment to Nigeria’s industrial advancement have continued to inspire national pride. The Minister commended Innoson’s trailblazing efforts in local automobile production, CNG vehicle innovation, tractor assembly, and other manufacturing ventures that provide significant opportunities for youth empowerment and employment.
While touring the facility, Olawande interacted with young Nigerians undergoing technical training and apprenticeship at IVM, including two young women who have distinguished themselves as auto-technicians. Their success stories, he said, reflect the transformative impact of skills development in building a self-reliant generation.
Following the visit, the Ministry and Innoson agreed to collaborate on expanding youth-focused training, apprenticeship, and enterprise development programmes nationwide, particularly within the automotive and allied industries.
The Minister also met with the Anambra State Commissioner for Youth Development, Hon. Patrick Agha Mba, to strengthen cooperation between the federal and state governments under the “1 Youth, 2 Skills” campaign. Both ministries reaffirmed their joint commitment to equipping young Nigerians with productive and marketable skills that promote innovation, self-reliance, and sustainable livelihoods.
ADEOLA KUNLE
