Abuja, Nigeria – February 15, 2024

The Nigerian Forum of Honourable Commissioners, Ministry of Youth and Sports Development, representing all 36 states of Nigeria, convened in Abuja from February 14th to 15th, 2024. The forum’s primary agenda included the election of new leadership and fruitful discussions with key federal ministers to address crucial issues affecting youth development and sports in the nation.

During the gathering, Honourable Bashir Lawandi Datti from Plateau State emerged as the Chairman of the forum, while Honourable Gold Adedayo from Ekiti State was elected as the Vice Chairman. The forum also appointed Honourable Agbateyiniro Wayinmi Isaac from Delta State as the Secretary, Honourable Richard Idike from Ebonyi State as the Treasurer, Honourable Hamza Safiyanu from Kano State as the Financial Secretary, Barrister Ijom Ukam from Cross River State as the Legal Adviser, and Muhammad Salis Gamawa from Bauchi State as the Spokesperson and Publicity Secretary.
Additionally, the forum established regional chairs, with Honourable Muhammad Salis Gamawa emerging as the Chairman of the Northern Commissioners Forum, Honourable Agbateyiniro Wayinmi Isaac as the Chairman of the Southern States, and Honourable Richard Idike as the Chairman of the Eastern States.
Delegates of the Nigerian Forum of Honourable Commissioners held meetings with Honourable Minister of Sports, Senator John Owan Enoh, and Honourable Minister of State, Honourable Ayodele Olawande.

The discussions centered around various key points aimed at enhancing youth development and sports in Nigeria amongst others:
i. State-Specific Youth Development Initiatives: Each state presented updates on ongoing youth development initiatives, highlighting successes, challenges, and areas for improvement.
ii. National Youth Policy Implementation: The forum discussed the implementation status of the National Youth Policy and ways to collaborate effectively between federal and state governments to achieve its objectives.
iii. Review of the National Policy and State Involvement: Emphasis was placed on the need to involve all State Commissioners for Youth Development in the review of the National Youth Policy, ensuring a bottom-up approach to policy formulation.
iv. Youth Employment and Entrepreneurship: Strategies to enhance youth employment opportunities and support youth entrepreneurship were deliberated, including skills training, access to finance, and mentorship programs.
v. Education and Training: Initiatives to improve access to quality education and vocational training for young people were explored, with a focus on addressing educational disparities and promoting lifelong learning.
vi. Youth Health and Well-being: Discussions highlighted the importance of youth health and well-being, including mental health support, access to healthcare services, and initiatives to address substance abuse.
vii. Youth Participation in Governance: The forum explored avenues to increase youth participation in governance and decision-making processes at national and state levels.
viii. Sports and Recreation: The role of sports and recreation in youth development was discussed, with a focus on promoting sports participation, developing talent, and improving sports infrastructure.
ix. Technology and Innovation: Integration of technology and innovation in youth development programs was addressed, including initiatives to enhance digital literacy and support youth-led innovation and entrepreneurship.
x. Youth Empowerment Programs: Existing youth empowerment programs were reviewed, with a focus on identifying opportunities for collaboration and synergy among stakeholders.
xi. Monitoring and Evaluation: Mechanisms for monitoring and evaluating the effectiveness of youth development interventions were discussed, ensuring accountability and continuous improvement.
xii. Loyalty and Support to Mr. President: The forum expressed its loyalty and support to His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR and requested a meeting with Mr. President through the office of the Honourable Minister.
The Nigerian Forum of Honourable Commissioners remains committed to advancing youth development and sports in Nigeria and will continue to collaborate with relevant stakeholders to achieve its objectives.

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Nigerian Forum of Honourable Commissioners, Ministry of Youth and Sports Development Elects New Leadership and Holds Crucial Meetings with Federal Ministers