The Delta State Commissioner for Youth Development, Mr Brave Oyinkore Enodeh, has assured young people in the state that the Governor Sheriff Oborevwori administration will prioritise job creation, skills acquisition and youth empowerment to improve their welfare.
Enodeh gave the assurance while interacting with journalists in Asaba, the Delta State capital, on Tuesday.
The commissioner said the ministry would focus on engaging young people through programmes that would equip them with relevant skills, create employment opportunities and discourage involvement in social vices.
According to him, the large number of youths who visited the ministry after his appointment showed that young people were eager to participate in government programmes.
“I was encouraged by the turnout of youths who came to welcome me and express interest in the activities of the ministry. It shows they have confidence in what the government is doing for them,” he said.
Enodeh expressed gratitude to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for appointing him as commissioner, promising to justify the confidence reposed in him through hard work and effective implementation of youth-focused policies.
“I may not have enough words to thank the governor. The best way to appreciate him is to work hard and exceed expectations by ensuring that government policies on youth development are successfully implemented,” he added.
Speaking on youth participation in politics, the commissioner commended the turnout of young people during the recently concluded Continuous Voter Registration exercise, describing youths as a major force in the country’s electoral process.
He urged them to remain actively involved in democracy and continue supporting programmes aimed at improving their future.
Addressing concerns over unemployment, Enodeh said the ministry’s priority would be to create opportunities for young people through vocational training, entrepreneurship development and digital skills.
He noted that the state government was committed to empowering youths to become self-reliant rather than depending solely on white-collar jobs.
“The focus of this government is on job creation, skills acquisition, sensitisation and digital empowerment. We want Delta youths to compete favourably with their peers anywhere in the world,” he said.
The commissioner also described drug abuse as a growing challenge among young people, attributing it largely to idleness and negative peer influence.
He said the ministry would intensify youth engagement programmes to keep young people occupied with productive activities.
“When youths are idle, they become vulnerable to drug abuse and crime. Our responsibility is to engage them continuously, provide opportunities and guide them towards meaningful ventures,” he said.
According to Enodeh, the ministry is already developing several programmes that will soon be unveiled to empower young people across the state.
He called on Delta youths to remain patient, focused and prepared to take advantage of the opportunities the government would provide.
“I have spent many years working with young people as a youth leader and student leader. I understand their challenges, and I want them to know that this ministry is open to them. Together, we will build a brighter future for Delta youths,” he said.
