The federal government has reiterated its commitment to youth empowerment, inclusive governance, and grassroots development, as part of efforts to build a peaceful  country.

The minister of youth development, Ayodele Olawande, gave the assurance while delivering his keynote address at a retreat organised by the Traditional Youth Chiefs’ Forum of Nigeria, (TYCFN) on Wednesday in Nasarawa.

The theme of the retreat tagged “The Role of Traditional Youth Chiefs in Peace Building and Community Development” brought together youth leaders, policymakers, and civil society representatives.

Mr Olawande, who was represented by Obinna Nwaka, director general, Committee of Youth on Mobilisation and Sensitisation (CYMS), said youth are not just leaders of tomorrow but are also drivers of change today.

“As Traditional Youth Chiefs, you are the bridge between heritage and innovation.

“Your leadership is essential in promoting peace, guiding development, and amplifying the voices of young people.”

The minister also described peace building as a continuous process rooted in justice, dialogue, and inclusive participation.

He urged the youth chiefs to champion community development through education, vocational training, entrepreneurship, and mentorship.

Mr Olawande further called for the inclusion of marginalised voices in governance and the promotion of patriotic values, aimed at shaping a positive national image.

He highlighted the Renewed Hope administration’s youth-focused agenda, to include several initiatives of the Tinubu’s  administration such as Nigerian Youth Academy (NiYA) and Nigeria Education Loan Fund (NELFUND).

Others are the Nigeria Youth Investment Fund (NYIF), the Pi-CNG Initiative, ongoing NYSC reforms, and the upcoming Youth Confab.

“These programmes are designed to empower our youth with skills, capital, and platforms to thrive and become self-reliant,” he said.

He expressed appreciation to the forum for conferring on him the traditional title of Matawallen Matasan Nigeria (Guardian of Nigeria Youth) during their courtesy visit to his office in Abuja.

He commended the forum and its national chairman, Aliyu Shehu, for championing youth inclusion in traditional leadership structures.

“As the retreat progresses, stakeholders are expected to develop actionable strategies to strengthen collaboration between traditional institutions and government towards achieving sustainable community development and national unity.

“This gathering must be a Launchpad for partnerships and policies that uplift every Nigerian youth,” Mr Olawande added.

(NAN)