The Kwara State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to developing a comprehensive youth policy aimed at empowering young people and accelerating sustainable development across the state.
Mary Ronke Arinde, the Commissioner for Planning and Economic Development, stated this on Tuesday during an inception meeting held with the Consultant, United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), Toriola Femi Adebayo, at the Conference Hall of Ministry of Finance.
Arinde explained that the State Government had already signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with UNFPA, adding that the partnership is expected to produce a robust implementation framework that will strengthen youth development initiatives across all sectors.
The Commissioner, called on all stakeholders involved in the process to work collaboratively toward developing a holistic, inclusive and impactful youth policy that reflects the aspirations of the State.
Ndanusa Sheu Usman, Commissioner for Youth Development, commended UNFPA for what he described as a timely and strategic intervention, emphasising that the present administration remains fully committed to empowering young people and positioning them as leaders of today, not just tomorrow.
Also speaking, Toriola Femi Adebayo, the UNFPA Consultant, appreciated the Kwara State Government for aligning with development partners in the drive to establish a standard youth policy for the State and noted that the policy, once completed, would promote broader empowerment opportunities and enhance programmatic interventions for youths across the state.
“We are here to develop an inclusive youth policy that will guide effective programme implementation in Kwara State, with the full involvement of all key stakeholders,” she said.
Kayode Alimi, State Director of Planning, assured the consultant and other stakeholders of the Ministry’s commitment to ensuring the development of a strong and comprehensive youth policy for the 2025–2030 period.
Abdulsalam Akeem, the Director of Youth, lauded UNFPA for its continuous support and expressed his unwavering commitment to the successful execution of the programme.
