Nigerian Youth Parliament Commends Sunday Dare

Michael Olugbode in Abuja

The former Minister of Youth and Sports Development, Honourable Sunday Dare’s outstanding achievements and transformative impact in public service has been commended by the Nigerian Youth Parliament.

The Speaker of the Nigerian Youth Parliament, Rt. Honourable (Dr.) Azeezat Yishawu gave the commendation on behalf of the Nigerian Youth Parliament, insisting that the former Minister has a successful four-year tenure under President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration.

She claimed that through his visionary leadership, Hon. Sunday Dare had spearheaded initiatives that have empowered Nigerian youth and contributed significantly to their development.

She also noted that under the leadership of Dare, the Nigerian Youth Parliament has enjoyed a robust working relationship with the Ministry of Youth and Sports Development, adding that this collaboration has elevated the voice of Nigerian youth, giving them a strong presence and representation among the global youth community.

The Speaker acknowledged and appreciated the former Minister’s unwavering support and commitment to fostering meaningful engagement with the Nigerian Youth Parliament, enabling their active participation in shaping policies that directly impact their lives.

She explained that at the forefront of his accomplishments is the establishment of the groundbreaking N75 billion Nigeria Youth Investment Fund (NYIF) spanning 2020 to 2023, stressing that under Dare’s guidance, this fund has provided unprecedented financial support and resources to young entrepreneurs, equipping them with the necessary tools to turn their dreams into tangible businesses and contribute to Nigeria’s economic growth.

The Speaker of the Nigerian Youth Parliament also acknowledged Hon. Dare’s instrumental role in championing the NYIF, which has opened doors of opportunity for countless aspiring youth across the nation.

She said recognizing the immense potential within the sports industry, Dare has played a pivotal role in re-classifying sports from a mere recreational activity to a thriving business sector. “His transformative vision has created an enabling environment for youth engagement, talent development, and job creation within the sports industry,” she noted.

She applauded Dare’s efforts in recognizing the power of sports as a vehicle for youth empowerment and socio-economic growth, insisting that with
an unwavering commitment to youth and sports development, the outgoing Minister has devoted substantial resources to ensure a prosperous future for Nigerian youth. His dedication is evident in the allocation of N188 billion, with N60 billion and N88 billion respectively, in the new National Development Plan (2021-2025). These funds will facilitate comprehensive youth empowerment programmes, encompassing education, entrepreneurship, skills training, and technology.

The Speaker, while commending Dare’s foresight in prioritizing the needs of Nigerian youth and ensuring their inclusion in the nation’s development agenda, said throughout his tenure, Dare has remained steadfast in his pursuit of bridging the digital divide, promoting gender equality, eradicating child labor, and decolonizing education.

“His transformative policies and initiatives have uplifted the Nigerian youth, positioning them as critical contributors to the nation’s progress. Yishawu said while recognizing Dare’s tireless efforts and visionary leadership in advancing the cause of Nigerian youth.

“Furthermore, Hon. Sunday Dare’s commitment to youth empowerment and development has extended beyond financial support and policy initiatives. He has actively engaged with the Nigerian Youth Parliament through consultations, town hall meetings, and youth-focused forums, ensuring that their perspectives are considered in the decision-making process. This inclusive approach has empowered the Nigerian Youth Parliament to effectively advocate for the rights and interests of young people across the country”, she said.