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FG, YOTSI Launch $2.5B YEIDEP Donorship Drive to Tackle Youth Unemployment, Poverty, Food Insecurity

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 Journalist101

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June 30, 2025

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In a bold move to combat youth unemployment, food insecurity, and economic exclusion, the Federal Government in partnership with the Youths Off The Street Initiative (YOTSI) has launched the $2.5 billion YEIDEP Global Donorship Drive and Fundraising Campaign.

The initiative is designed to finance the Cooperative Youth Farmers and Allied Entrepreneurs Programme (CYFAEP)—a sub-scheme of the Youth Economic Intervention and De-Radicalization Programme (YEIDEP)—which aims to empower young Nigerians and women through agriculture, entrepreneurship, and self-employment.

YEIDEP, a flagship youth empowerment initiative spearheaded by the Federal Ministry of Youth Development and YOTSI in collaboration with global donors and development partners, was conceived to address urgent socio-economic threats including chronic youth unemployment, household poverty, food insecurity, and the growing risk of youth radicalization.

Speaking at the launch event, Comrade Kennedy Iyere, Coordinator-General of YEIDEP, disclosed that the programme has already registered about six million youths and young women as members and plans to build a national network of twenty million cooperative youth farmers and agro-allied entrepreneurs between 2025 and 2027.

“This initiative will drastically reduce youth and women unemployment, boost food production, ensure food security, alleviate household poverty, and foster youth economic inclusion and de-radicalization,” Iyere said.

He emphasized that YEIDEP will provide beneficiaries with financial assistance, technical support, training, mentorship, and access to markets, thereby giving them the tools to succeed in agribusiness and related sectors.

Iyere further announced partnerships with eight commercial banks—Keystone Bank, Fidelity Bank, Lotus Bank, Union Bank, Wema Bank, Zenith Bank, Guaranty Trust Bank, and Providus Bank—to handle the receipt, warehousing, and disbursement of funds.

“The launch of the YEIDEP Global Donorship Drive and Fundraising Campaign marks a significant step towards addressing Nigeria’s key problems of chronic youth unemployment, economic exclusion, food insecurity, and youth radicalization,” Iyere stated.

He called on global donors, development partners, federal and state governments, private corporations, industry leaders, and influential individuals to contribute generously to the campaign.

“YEIDEP’s goal is to empower twenty million young Nigerians through entrepreneurship and self-employment in agriculture, food and beverage, agro-allied industries, agritech, renewable energy, and more—fostering economic growth, political stability, and national security,” he said.

Iyere warned of the potential dangers if Nigeria’s youth crisis is not urgently addressed:
“Unless these key social and economic problems are drastically addressed, Nigeria remains a fragile country dangerously sitting on a keg of gunpowder, as the time bomb of youth unemployment ticks daily toward a disastrous explosion. YEIDEP must be embraced and supported by all Nigerians, beyond political interest and affiliation.”

The campaign marks one of the most ambitious youth-targeted economic interventions in recent years, signaling a shift toward grassroots-driven, donor-supported development in Nigeria.

 

This Is A Very Inspiring Moment For Me,” Says Nigerian Medical Student In Saint Lucia After Meeting President Tinubu and Prime Minister Pierre

Bob Chikwem Amadi, a Nigerian medical student at the American International University in Saint Lucia, described his encounter with President Bola Tinubu and Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre as inspiring.

Amadi, who is preparing for the clinical phase of his medical training at the American International University in Saint Lucia, had a memorable encounter with the Nigerian leader and the Lucian Prime Minister Pierre on the second day of President Tinubu’s state visit to the Caribbean nation.

Amadi works part-time as a talent and brand manager with a local catering and entertainment firm and was among the staff invited to provide services during President Tinubu’s courtesy visit to the Prime Minister’s official residence.

During the visit, the Prime Minister’s staff informed him that one of the service team members was a Nigerian student.

At the beginning of his talks with President Tinubu, Prime Minister Pierre introduced Amadi, a native of Rivers State, to the Nigerian leader.

President Tinubu paused briefly to ask the young man his name, background, and how he was doing, and wished him well in his studies and endeavours in Saint Lucia.

The medical student was later invited for a group photograph with both leaders.

“This is an inspiring moment for me. Saint Lucia is an amazing island. I will describe it as a wonderful place. They are a very contented society and things are relatively calm,” he said.

Reflecting on the ties between Nigeria and Saint Lucia, Amadi said, “We have always hoped that there are many opportunities between Saint Lucia and Nigeria. We share similar food crops and culture, and the connection is deep.”

Amadi has lived in Saint Lucia for ten years. He has completed his four-year basic programme in medicine and is now preparing for the next phase of his education.

97,000 Youths to Benefit from Landmark Agricultural Training Initiative

 97,000 Youths to Benefit from Landmark Agricultural Training Initiative

The National Directorate of Employment (NDE) has announced that 97,000 Nigerian youths will benefit from a food and livestock farming programme under the Renewed Hope Employment Initiative (RHEI) of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. The initiative is a collaborative effort with the 12 River Basin Development Authorities (RBDA) and the National Seed Council (NSC).

The Director General of NDE, H.E. Silas Ali Agara, disclosed this during a meeting with the management team of RBDA in Abuja. According to him, the programme aims to equip youths with skills in farming and livestock production, enabling them to become self-employed and contribute to increased food production.The RBDA will provide land, tractors, fertilizers, and other necessary resources and the NSC on the other hand will provide improved seeds for the trainees.

The D-G NDE emphasized the importance of commitment from potential beneficiaries, as they will be expected to utilize loans to become food and livestock producers. The Managing Director of Sokoto River Basin Development Authority, Alhaji Abubakar Malam, expressed delight in being part of the initiative, which aims to utilize river basins to train youths and boost local food production.

The programme is expected to have a significant impact on the nation's food security and youth employment. With the combined efforts of NDE, RBDA, and NSC, the initiative is poised for success.

Training of 300 Youth by Governor Agbu Kefas on Agriculture: A Boost to Taraba State's Economic Growth

 Training of 300 Youth by Governor Agbu Kefas on Agriculture: A Boost to Taraba State's Economic Growth

Henry Agbu 

In a move that underscores his administration’s commitment to youth empowerment and food security, Governor Agbu Kefas of Taraba State has flagged off an agricultural training programme for 300 youths drawn across the 16 Local Government Areas of the state. The initiative, which forms part of the state’s broader agricultural transformation agenda, is being hailed as a timely intervention to combat unemployment, stimulate rural development, and reposition Taraba as a major food-producing hub in Nigeria.

The training programme, implemented in partnership with agricultural experts and institutions, aims to equip the beneficiaries with modern skills in crop production, livestock management, agribusiness, and climate-smart farming techniques. By harnessing the energy and creativity of young people, the state government is planting seeds of long-term prosperity in communities that have historically relied on subsistence farming.

Governor Kefas, while addressing the participants during the launch of the programme, emphasised the critical role of agriculture in diversifying the state’s economy. “We cannot rely on federal allocations forever. Taraba is blessed with vast arable land and a youthful population. By combining these assets, we can feed ourselves, create jobs, and even export,” he said.

The training also includes practical sessions and access to starter kits, inputs, and possible funding support, giving the young farmers a head start toward sustainability and profitability. Experts believe that if well implemented, this initiative could help reduce youth restiveness, curb rural-urban migration, and contribute to the state's GDP.

For many of the beneficiaries, the opportunity is life-changing. "Before now, I had no idea where my future was headed. But with this training, I feel hopeful and empowered to not only provide for myself but also employ others," said Janet Audu, one of the trainees from Bali LGA.

Agriculture analysts are optimistic about the multiplier effect this initiative will have. Beyond food production, it is expected to stimulate agro-processing, packaging, and marketing sectors, creating value chains that will benefit thousands of Tarabans.

Governor Kefas’ initiative aligns with his broader vision of “Moving Taraba Forward,” a development blueprint focused on inclusive governance, economic diversification, and youth development. This agricultural training scheme is not just a project—it is a policy shift that recognises young people as key stakeholders in building a self-reliant and prosperous Taraba.

The good part of the process is that the trainees were selected after applying to the ministry of Agriculture and Food Security who filled forms with requisite certificate of ND.HND.First Degree and others that are interested in developing his/her self in Agriculture through oral interview in some cases.

This is the first batch, the second and third batches are coming.

As the state watches these 300 young men and women sow new seeds of hope, one thing is clear: Taraba’s future is being cultivated—one farm at a time.

FALSE CLAIMS ON NOMINATION OF A NEW DEPUTY GOVERNOR

 FALSE CLAIMS ON NOMINATION OF A NEW DEPUTY GOVERNOR

PRESS RELEASE

The attention of the Taraba State Government has been drawn to rumour making  rounds on social and traditional media suggesting that His Excellency, Dr Agbu Kefas, the Executive Governor of Taraba State, has nominated Alhaji Hamman Adama as the new Deputy Governor of the state.

This claim is entirely false, misleading, wicked and should be disregarded by the public in its entirety.

We wish to categorically state that there is no vacancy in the office of the Deputy Governor . The current Deputy Governor, Alhaji Aminu Abdullahi Alkali, remains the duly elected Deputy Governor of Taraba State.

We urge the public to remain calm and to rely only on verified information from official Government communication channels. The process of replacing a Deputy Governor, as enshrined in the Nigerian Constitution, is clear, due legislative and constitutional procedures is required. No such process has been initiated or contemplated at this time.

The Taraba State Government remains focused on delivering good governance and will not be distracted by unfounded speculations.

Signed:

Barr Zainab Usman Jalingo

Commissioner for Information and Re-orientation

Taraba State

Taraba Youths Embark on Agricultural Empowerment Journey Under Governor Kefas’s Moving Forward Vision

 Taraba Youths Embark on Agricultural Empowerment Journey Under Governor Kefas’s Moving Forward Vision

In line with the Moving Forward agenda of His Excellency, Dr. Agbu Kefas, 300 youths from Taraba State have arrived at CSS Global Integrated Farms Ltd in Nasarawa State for a life-changing agricultural skills training program.

 Sponsored by the state government through the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, this initiative is a strategic investment in human capital and food system transformation.

Upon arrival, the participants began their registration and documentation—marking the first phase of an intensive, hands-on training in modern farming techniques, agribusiness, and sustainable food production.

This program is more than just training—it’s a launchpad for a new generation of agricultural leaders. 

By equipping young people with relevant, practical skills, Governor Kefas is laying the groundwork for long-term food security, economic empowerment, and youth-driven development across Taraba State.

The journey has just begun, but the impact will echo far into the future.

 Taraba is truly Moving Forward—one empowered youth at a time.

#MOVINGFORWARD

All is now set for the training of 300 youths in Taraba State by Governor Agbu Kefas.

 All is now set for the training of 300 youths in Taraba State by Governor Agbu Kefas.

Taraba State Governor Dr.Agbu Kefas has again match words with action as three hundred youths are to depart Taraba State for training on Agriculture.

This again marks a thrust in the Agricultural Mechanization Project of the governor in lieu of the remarkable achievements recorded in the Agric sector for the past two years.

In a related development, Commissioner of Agriculture and Food Security Professor Nicholas Namessan Oliver who is already in Nassarawa State,has inspected the CSS integrated farms venue of the training to ensure a hitch free exercise.

The Commissioner who inspected,the farm,hostel,field for recreational activities,lecture theater and others expressed satisfaction over the facilities.

Professor Nicholas Namessan Oliver posited that the support of Governor Agbu Kefas to farmers and training of youths would remain evergreen in the hearts of the trainees cut across the sixteen local government areas of the state including Yangtu and Ngada Special Development Arears.

This is the first batch of the training.

President Tinubu Hands Over ECOWAS Leadership To Sierra Leone’s President Maada Bio, Calls For Vigilance, Unity, And Inclusive Growth

 

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President Tinubu Hands Over ECOWAS Leadership To Sierra Leone’s President Maada Bio, Calls For Vigilance, Unity, And Inclusive Growth

• David Peter
 
• Civil Organizations, News, Stories 
 
• June 22, 2025
 
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President Bola Tinubu, on Sunday in Abuja, handed over the chairmanship of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government to President Julius Maada Bio of Sierra Leone, expressing confidence in the region’s continued path toward peace, stability, and prosperity.

The ECOWAS Authority’s 67th Ordinary Session closed with the symbolic handover of the Emblem to the incoming Chair.

President Tinubu described it as a profound honour and privilege to have led the esteemed body, adding that he remained deeply humbled by the trust and support extended to him throughout his two-term tenure.

“As I now hand over the mantle of leadership to my great friend and dear brother, His Excellency President Julius Maada Bio of Sierra Leone, the new Chairman of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government, I do so with a deep sense of fulfilment and optimism for the future of West Africa.

“I remain confident that with the continued cooperation of all its members, ECOWAS will scale greater heights in our collective pursuit of peace, security, stability, and prosperity for our people and our region,” he said.

Reflecting on his tenure, President Tinubu noted the complex political and security challenges the region has faced in recent years while calling on leaders to remain committed to the evolving needs of West African citizens.

“Let us deepen cooperation, uphold diplomatic principles, and foster inclusive growth that leaves no one behind—especially our youth, women, and vulnerable populations, who remain central to the future of our region,” he said.

President Tinubu emphasised the need to preserve democratic values and ensure that political stability is not separated from economic development.

“Our organisation must continue to strike a fine balance between its core regional mandate of economic integration and the complex political, security, and governance challenges, including the preservation of democratic values in our region.”

“Economic integration cannot be superimposed on an untenable political environment. That is why we must remain steadfast in our resolve to rise to these emerging challenges,” the Nigerian leader declared.

President Tinubu commended the ECOWAS Commission, community institutions, and technical staff for their dedication and professionalism in supporting the Authority’s work and organising a successful summit.

He reaffirmed his commitment to the region’s shared mission and urged continued unity among member states.

“As you return to your respective countries, let us remain resolute in our shared mission to deepen our integration, protect our people, and build a prosperous, secure, and united West Africa,” he said.

In his acceptance speech, President Bio of Sierra Leone, the newly elected Chairman of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government, outlined four key priorities.

He pledged to lead a renewed, people-centred, and action-oriented ECOWAS in the face of unprecedented challenges and opportunities for the West African region.

President Bio said his leadership would focus on restoring constitutional order and deepening democracy, revitalising regional security cooperation, unlocking economic integration, and building institutional credibility.

“We must engage transitional governments constructively and support member states in building stronger democratic institutions rooted in the rule of law.

“We must overhaul our collective security architecture—from intelligence sharing to rapid response capabilities—to confront new threats with unity and resolve.

“The ECOWAS Trade Liberalisation Scheme, regional infrastructure, and cross-border value chains must become engines of job creation, trade, and resilience, especially for our women and youth.

“ECOWAS must reform itself to become more transparent, efficient, and responsive to the needs of its people. This is how we will rebuild trust in regional cooperation, “he said.

President Bio commended his predecessor, President Tinubu, for laying a solid foundation of regional dialogue, economic recovery, and peacebuilding.’

“I am humbled to build upon the strong foundation you have established,” he said, thanking President Tinubu for his “experience and leadership. ”

Acknowledging the complexities of the current moment, the Sierra Leonean leader noted that West Africa stands at a crossroads, grappling with terrorism, illicit arms flow, political instability, and transnational crime, particularly in the Sahel and coastal states.

“The democratic space is under strain in parts of our region. In some countries, the constitutional order has been disrupted. Yet, across West Africa, citizens—especially our youth—are demanding not just elections, but also accountability, transparency, and a fair stake in national life,” the Sierra Leonean said.

ECOWAS

David Peter

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