Plan International Nigeria and the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction have signed a memorandum of understanding to expand youth empowerment efforts across the country.

The initiative aims to tackle youth unemployment and promote sustainable poverty reduction through targeted interventions.

This was disclosed in a statement on Thursday. It said the MoU establishes a strategic partnership to provide skills training, financial education, and entrepreneurship support to vulnerable young people, with a strong focus on girls and young women.

The Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Nentawe Yilwatda, described the collaboration as a vital step toward delivering a lasting impact for Nigeria’s most underserved populations.

“This ministry is about humanity, and we look forward to working with Plan International Nigeria to give this country the honour it truly deserves. While we are investing in humanitarian and development sectors, it comes to nothing without investing in peace. It is critical in this process to create a Nigeria that all of us dream of having,” he said.

Also speaking, Plan International Nigeria’s country director, Charles Usie, reaffirmed the shared vision of both institutions.

“We believe that the Nigeria we seek can happen in our lifetime. This partnership represents a significant step toward our shared goal, especially to empower young people, particularly girls, with the tools, opportunities, and support they need to thrive,” he stated.

Mr Usie added that the organisation remains committed to unlocking the potential of Nigerian youth through inclusive education and leadership development. He highlighted the organisation’s mission to advance children’s rights and promote equality for girls.

The MoU signals a broader effort by the Ministry to integrate humanitarian assistance, development priorities, and peacebuilding strategies, ensuring the inclusion of youth in national development planning.

The partnership will also involve collaboration with stakeholders at the local, state, and federal levels, as well as international development partners and the private sector, to ensure coordinated action and sustainable impact.

The agreement adds to a growing list of strategic collaborations Plan International Nigeria has secured in the past year.

(NAN)