The Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, has restated the Federal Government’s commitment to youth empowerment, entrepreneurship development and economic growth through strategic partnerships and innovation-driven programmes.
Olawande gave the assurance during a courtesy visit by organisers of the Young Leaders Entrepreneurship Conference, led by the Executive Director of Yolechub, Tosin Adesile, at his office in Abuja.
During the meeting, the minister pledged the ministry’s support for the 10th edition of the entrepreneurship conference, which focuses on equipping young Nigerians with business opportunities, mentorship and access to industry leaders.
The organisers briefed the minister on the impact of the annual initiative and its role in helping young entrepreneurs build sustainable businesses over the years.
Speaking during the visit, Olawande praised the organisers for successfully sustaining the conference for a decade, describing it as a major achievement that reflects commitment to youth development and entrepreneurship growth.
According to him, maintaining such an initiative for 10 years demonstrates passion, consistency and dedication toward empowering young Nigerians.
The minister also disclosed that the Federal Ministry of Youth Development recently secured a partnership with Meta aimed at improving digital skills, entrepreneurship, innovation, content creation and access to global opportunities for Nigerian youths.
He assured the organisers that the ministry is ready to collaborate with Yolechub beyond the conference, adding that the government remains focused on initiatives capable of expanding opportunities for young people across the country.
Responding, Yolechub Executive Director, Tosin Adesile, commended the minister for what he described as his strong commitment to youth-focused programmes and leadership.
Adesile said the appointment of younger individuals into key government positions is already producing visible results, particularly within the Ministry of Youth Development.
He also appreciated the minister for supporting the conference and expressing willingness to partner on future youth empowerment initiatives.
Also present during the visit was the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Youth Development, Maryam Ismaila Keshinro.
The 10th edition of the Young Leaders Entrepreneurship Conference is themed, “Empowering Young Entrepreneurs with Fintech Platforms and SME Financing to Boost Startups for a Smarter Digital Economy.”
The event is scheduled to hold on June 4, 2026, at the National Open University Conference Hall in Abuja.
