Delta will prioritise jobs, empowerment to fight drug abuse — Commissioner

Delta State's Commissioner for Youth Development, Brave Enodeh, has pledged that Governor Sheriff Oborevwori's administration will focus on job creation, skills acquisition, and youth empowerment to combat unemployment and curb drug abuse. Enodeh, recently appointed to the position, stated in Asaba that the ministry will implement programs designed to equip young people with practical skills, create employment opportunities, and steer them away from crime and other social vices.

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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.

Enodeh noted the significant interest shown by youths visiting the ministry after his appointment, interpreting it as a sign of confidence in the government's initiatives. He thanked Governor Oborevwori for the opportunity to serve and promised to justify the trust placed in him through diligent work and effective implementation of youth-focused programs. He stressed that exceeding expectations by successfully executing government policies on youth development would be the best way to show appreciation.

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The best way to appreciate him is to work hard and exceed expectations by ensuring that government policies on youth development are successfully implemented.

The commissioner also commended the active participation of young people in the recent Continuous Voter Registration exercise, recognizing them as a vital force in Nigeria's democratic process. He urged them to remain involved in governance and support initiatives that promise a better future. The ministry's strategy includes prioritizing vocational training, entrepreneurship, and digital skills development to make young people self-reliant and competitive in the global economy, moving beyond a sole focus on white-collar jobs.

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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.

Addressing drug abuse, Enodeh identified idleness and negative peer influence as major contributing factors. He stated that the ministry would strengthen youth engagement programs to keep young people productively occupied. "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.

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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.