The minister of youth development, Jamila Ibrahim, on Wednesday in Abuja, assured Nigerian youths of her passion and dedication to championing their affairs.

“I am passionate and dedicated to anything that concerns youth affairs. Let’s pray for the speaker for her stewardship in the parliament, and I will give the assurance that I will look into the challenges of the parliament and then provide the necessary support,” stated Ms Ibrahim.

Maryam Yusuf, the ministry’s spokeswoman, disclosed in a statement that the minister gave the assurance when receiving a delegation of senior officials of the Nigerian Youth Parliament (NYP).

The delegation was led during the courtesy visit by its speaker, Azeezat Yishawu, in Abuja.

The minister added, “I have watched from a distance and seen how she is steering the ship of the parliament and she has done well. It is my hope and desire to see that you evolve into bigger responsibilities and take on bigger roles.

“This is your ministry. This is your home. I have taken note of all your challenges, requests and, of course, all the good work that the parliament has done. This is very impressive and the ministry will take all necessary steps to address the challenges.”

Ms Ibrahim promised to study the report on the National Youth Security Summit, saying she is very passionate about women and youths.

“When it comes to youths and women, this is my passion, especially supporting them because I see myself in them,” she said.

The minister attributed the success of Ms Yishawu partly to the support she enjoyed from the parliament’s male members. She said there was a need to give women more space to exhibit their leadership qualities.

Ms Yishawu said the NYP was in the ministry to assure the minister of their support and the readiness to provide all the necessary support to help her succeed.

She said the parliament under her leadership had carried out some activities such as the National Youths Security Summit. The summit was held in 2022 to examine how young people can participate in keeping peace in the country.

Ms Yishawu added that the research on drug abuse was due to the rising cases of drug abuse and social vices by youth and worsening unemployment.

(NAN)