In a renewed push to empower young Nigerians through skills development and inclusive education, the Federal Ministry of Youth Development has formally assumed control of the Agadagba Skill Acquisition Centre, located in the riverine Ese Odo Local Government Area of Ondo State.
The move marks a significant step by the Federal Government to expand its reach in vocational training and youth empowerment, particularly among underserved and hard-to-reach communities. Speaking at the official handover ceremony held in Abuja, the Minister of Youth Development described the takeover as part of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s broader commitment to investing in the nation’s youth and unlocking their economic potential.
More than just a change in administration, the centre is set to undergo a major transformation. According to the minister, the facility will be upgraded into a full-fledged National Youth Camp. While vocational training will remain a core component, the scope is set to broaden significantly. Plans are already underway to integrate leadership development, digital innovation, entrepreneurship training, civic responsibility, and community service into the curriculum.
As part of the upgrade, the Ministry intends to introduce modern vocational programmes tailored to market needs, improve the centre’s infrastructure, and deploy qualified professionals to manage and deliver these services effectively. These efforts are geared toward creating a space where young people can not only acquire practical skills but also grow into responsible, self-reliant citizens.
The initiative comes at a time when unemployment and underemployment remain pressing concerns, particularly in regions like Ese Odo where access to formal education and job opportunities can be limited by geography. By targeting such communities, the Ministry aims to close the gap in opportunity and bring developmental interventions closer to the people who need them most.
During the handover, the Minister assured community leaders, traditional rulers, and youth representatives that the centre would be managed with transparency and a strong sense of purpose. He also acknowledged the critical role of inter-ministerial collaboration in making the transition possible. Special recognition was given to the Honourable Minister of Regional Development, Engr. Abubakar Momoh, whose support and cooperation were instrumental in the handover process.
This strategic initiative is part of a broader national agenda to reposition youth development as a catalyst for economic growth and national unity. By aligning training centres with the realities of the 21st-century workforce, one that demands not just technical skills but also leadership, innovation, and civic awareness,the government hopes to prepare Nigerian youth for active and productive participation in society.
Meanwhile, young Nigerians are also encouraged to explore other empowerment programmes, such as the Federal Government’s Youth Forex Trading Training Programme, which is currently open for applications. Opportunities like these reflect a growing recognition of the importance of equipping youth with diverse skills for a dynamic economy.
With the takeover of the Agadagba Centre and plans to transform it into a national hub of innovation and leadership, the Ministry of Youth Development is signaling a strong commitment to leaving no youth behind—regardless of geography or background.
