The Minister of Youth Development, Dr. Jamila Ibrahim, has encouraged young individuals involved in the creative sector to be deliberate in crafting their content. This appeal was made in Abuja during the commencement of the two-day 2023 Gender and Inclusion Summit, organized by the Policy Innovation Centre (PIC), an initiative of the Nigerian Economic Summit Group (NESG). The summit’s theme is “Building Bridges: Advancing Gender and Inclusion through the Intersection of Trade and Health.”
Dr. Ibrahim stressed the significant role played by the creative sector in influencing the youth’s agenda, particularly through the nature of the content they produce. She emphasized the need for intentionality in songs, lyrics, and messages that inspire, highlighting the importance of aligning these messages with the nation’s morals, culture, and values.
Acknowledging the challenges faced by Nigerian youth, such as high unemployment rates and the ‘Japa’ movement (emigration seeking better opportunities), Dr. Ibrahim recognized both the advantages and disadvantages of ‘Japa.’ She suggested that with proper harnessing, the nation could benefit from the situation. Despite the challenges, she expressed optimism about the youth’s prospects, stating that the country’s land is fertile for growth and development.
The minister revealed that the ministry would soon unveil a blueprint tailored for the aspirations of young people in Nigeria. She emphasized the importance of understanding that power is not automatically granted but negotiated, requiring individuals to bring real value to the table. Dr. Ibrahim encouraged youths to seize opportunities, develop relevant skills, and demonstrate character to contribute positively to society and change existing narratives.