Table of Contents
- Minister's Statement
- Interactive Session with Youths
- Youth-Focused Programs
- Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND)
- Three Million Technical Talent (3MTT) Programme
- Youth-Friendly Administration
- Economic Reforms
- Financial Milestone
- Role of Social Media
- Renewed Hope Agenda
The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has asserted that President Bola Tinubu’s youth empowerment initiatives stem from a genuine commitment to broadening opportunities for young Nigerians, rather than any political motives.
Idris made this clarification on Tuesday evening in Abuja during an interactive session with youths from the APC Youth Wing and various tertiary institutions throughout the Federal Capital Territory.
The session, characterized by open and honest discussions, was moderated by the APC National Youth Leader, Dr. Dayo Israel.
According to the minister, the youth-focused programs of the Tinubu administration are intentionally designed to be inclusive, accessible, and impactful, regardless of political affiliation.
“NELFUND is for all Nigerians; it is not exclusive to the APC. The 3MTT is for all Nigerians; it is not for the APC,” Idris emphasized. “Everything the President is doing aims to restore prosperity, dignity, and renew hope, enabling young people to realize their potential and regain faith in their country.”
He revealed that, according to the latest data, over 788,000 students are currently benefiting from the Nigerian Education Loan Fund, NELFUND, with more than N250 billion allocated for tuition support and student welfare across tertiary institutions nationwide.
The minister also highlighted the Three Million Technical Talent (3MTT) Programme, a flagship digital skills initiative launched by the Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy. The program aims to train three million Nigerians in high-demand technical and digital skills to enhance employability and competitiveness in the global digital economy.
“What excites me most is that even those who claim these programs are not genuine are enrolling, including individuals from other political parties,” Idris remarked. “This indicates that these initiatives are effective and reaching Nigerians as intended.”
Idris characterized the Tinubu administration as one that will be remembered as the most youth-friendly in Nigeria’s history, citing not only extensive empowerment programs but also the intentional appointment of young people to strategic leadership roles.
“Young people must start by trusting this administration,” he stated. “This is a government that has invested significantly in your future and continues to listen, engage, and create opportunities.”
Regarding the economy, the minister mentioned that the President’s bold reforms are beginning to show positive results, with signs of recovery becoming increasingly apparent. He pointed to the consistent reduction in food prices and a decrease in inflation as indicators that the economy is improving.
“Inflation is declining,” Idris said. “The President projected a drop to 15 percent, and today we are already at 14.45 percent. These are not mere coincidences; they are outcomes of intentional policy decisions.”
He also noted that Nigeria’s recent exit from the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) grey list is a significant achievement that will enhance the integrity of the financial system, boost investor confidence, and improve Nigeria’s access to global financial markets.
Idris encouraged young Nigerians to continue supporting the administration as it builds a solid foundation for sustainable national prosperity. He also urged youths to use their influence and numerical strength on social media responsibly by promoting verified information and countering misinformation.
“Social media is a powerful tool for development, but it can also be detrimental to society,” he warned. “If you are uncertain about the accuracy of a piece of information, please refrain from sharing it. Verify first.”
Idris reaffirmed that the Renewed Hope Agenda remains firmly focused on youth empowerment, inclusion, and national renewal, emphasizing that the future the administration is creating belongs to all Nigerians.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is NELFUND?
NELFUND is the Nigerian Education Loan Fund designed to provide financial assistance to students in tertiary institutions across Nigeria.
What is the purpose of the 3MTT Programme?
The 3MTT Programme aims to train three million Nigerians in high-demand technical and digital skills to enhance their employability in the global digital economy.
How is the government supporting youth empowerment?
The government is implementing various programs and initiatives focused on youth empowerment, including financial support for education and skills training.
Eze Chidiebere Paul
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