The Federal Government has launched the National Youth Data Bank, NYDB, to strengthen evidence-based planning and improve the delivery of targeted development programmes for young Nigerians.
The initiative was launched by the Federal Ministry of Youth Development as part of efforts to improve access to reliable data for policy formulation and youth-focused interventions across the country.
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Speaking at the launch, the Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, emphasised the need for sustained collaboration among government institutions, state governments, educational institutions, development partners, the private sector, civil society organisations and youth groups.
The Minister said the initiative goes beyond the collection and storage of information, noting that it is designed to identify young Nigerians and connect them with relevant opportunities.
He said such opportunities include skills development, employment, entrepreneurship, internships, digital programmes and other youth-focused interventions.
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Comrade Olawande stressed the importance of inclusion, privacy, accuracy and responsible data management in implementing the National Youth Data Bank.
He noted that particular attention must be given to young people in rural and underserved communities to ensure they are not excluded from government programmes and opportunities.
The Minister said reliable youth data would enable government and its partners to better understand the needs, aspirations and challenges of young Nigerians.
He described the vision of the initiative as: “Know the Youth, Understand the Youth, Connect the Youth and Empower the Youth.”
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The launch marks a step towards using reliable youth data to facilitate targeted interventions, expand access to opportunities and improve measurable development outcomes for young Nigerians.
The Federal Ministry of Youth Development said continued collaboration among stakeholders would be critical to ensuring the effectiveness and sustainability of the National Youth Data Bank.