The Minister of State for Youth Development, Mr. Ayodele Olawande, highlighted the growing preference for foreign workers in private firms, attributing it to the perceived lack of skills among Nigerian youths.
The minister conveyed his dismay during a courtesy visit by the National Youth Leaders Forum of all political parties in Nigeria, led by its chairman, Amb. Muhammed Awwal Musa. on Wednesday in Abuja.
Olawande urged Nigerian youths to take proactive steps in acquiring skills that would make them competitive and attractive to potential employers.
Emphasizing the need for a shift in approach, he advocated for the initiation of a “One Youth, Two Skills” campaign to empower the nation’s youth.
“It is disheartening to observe that most private firms are now inclined to hire foreigners due to the perceived lack of skills among our youths. We need to reverse this trend by equipping our youth with the necessary skills to make them employable and marketable,” remarked Olawande.
He called on the youth to embrace skill acquisition programs and take advantage of opportunities to enhance their competencies, fostering a culture of self-sufficiency and productivity.
In response, Amb. Mohammed Awwal Musa, Chairman of the National Youth Leaders Forum, commended the minister for his commitment to empowering the youth.
He underscored the importance of unity across political lines, expressing the forum’s readiness to collaborate with the government to address the challenges faced by the youth.
“The forum is willing to work with the present government irrespective of our political differences. We appreciate the efforts of the Minister of State for Youth Development in prioritizing the empowerment of our youth,” stated Musa.
