The Minister of State for Youth, Ayodele Olawande, has urged a stronger collaboration between the government and young people to enhance digital innovation and promote social development. His remarks came during the Nigeria GovTech Conference and Awards held in Abuja on Thursday.

In his keynote speech, Olawande stressed the vital role that the youth play in shaping the future of Nigeria. “Young people are the driving force behind innovation, particularly in the digital realm,” he asserted, emphasizing that effective governance must focus on empowering this demographic.

Highlighting the significance of youth involvement in policy-making, he remarked, “When we voice concerns about policies, it stems from our desire for progress.” He referenced alarming statistics related to youth in correctional facilities, underlining the urgent need for targeted support and empowerment. “This indicates that our efforts should prioritize empowering youth rather than merely serving older generations,” he added.

The minister’s message resonated with the conference theme, “Digital Innovation as a Catalyst for the Renewed Hope Agenda,” which aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s vision for a more inclusive and digitally-driven Nigeria.

Olawande emphasized the need for actionable commitments from leaders, stating, “We must engage meaningfully with each other and our global counterparts to exchange knowledge and strategies for fostering positive change.” He called for collaboration among all stakeholders, urging that “events like this should lead to concrete commitments rather than just discussions.”

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The conference, organized by the Bureau of Public Service Reforms, brought together a diverse group of thought leaders, technology experts, and government officials. Dr. Dasuki Arabi, Director-General of the Bureau, welcomed attendees, highlighting how digital technologies can transform governance and improve public service delivery.

Senator George Akume, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, echoed the minister’s sentiments, stressing that the government’s commitment to a digital-first approach is essential for realizing the Renewed Hope Agenda. “We aim to modernize operations, streamline processes, and establish more transparent and efficient systems,” he stated.

The conference focused on leveraging technology for sustainable growth, particularly in key areas like economic diversification, national security, and public health. Olawande reaffirmed the readiness of the youth to collaborate with leaders for positive societal impact, saying, “We, the youth, are ready to partner with you and contribute to the positive development of our society. Let’s work together to create a brighter future.”