Delta State Commissioner for Youth Development, Hon. Barr. Oyinkuro Brave Enodeh, has reaffirmed the commitment of the Delta State Government to empowering young people through entrepreneurship, skills acquisition, education and active participation in governance.
Speaking during an exclusive interview with Hill Nigeria Media, Enodeh said the administration of Governor Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori is determined to carry youths along in decision-making, describing youth inclusion as an essential ingredient for sustainable development.
The commissioner, who recently assumed office, said his long years of service as a youth leader have equipped him with the experience needed to effectively drive the ministry’s mandate.
“I was a youth president in my community in Patani for nine years and also served as a student union president. Everything about youths is familiar to me. That experience has prepared me for this responsibility,” he said.
Enodeh stressed that involving young people in governance goes beyond political participation, noting that government must also provide opportunities that enable them to become productive members of society.
“To involve youths in modern-day governance is not only necessary but essential. We must orientate them, create jobs for them, provide skill acquisition programmes, sensitize them and make them understand that they are the leaders of tomorrow. When we do this, we will have a better and more responsible society,” he stated.
According to him, the ministry’s immediate priority is to align with Governor Oborevwori’s development agenda by investing heavily in youth empowerment through entrepreneurship, vocational training and educational development.
“Our focus is to build the capacity of our youths through entrepreneurship, skill acquisition and academic development so they can compete with their counterparts nationally and internationally. With the cooperation we are receiving from the youths, we believe we will achieve our goals,” he added.
The commissioner also commended the staff and management of the Ministry of Youth Development for their professionalism and dedication since his assumption of office.
“For the few days I have been here, the staff have been very cooperative. They are punctual, committed, contribute ideas and are ready to work. Together, we will achieve the ministry’s objectives,” he said.
Enodeh explained that the ministry intends to adopt a strategic approach by addressing the different needs of rural and urban youths.
He noted that youths in local communities face different challenges from those exposed to urban environments and tertiary education, adding that his experience leading both groups places him in a unique position to understand and respond to their aspirations.
“I have lived among community youths and led them for nine years. I have also lived and led students in tertiary institutions. Because I understand both groups, it becomes easier to formulate policies that address their different needs,” he explained.
The commissioner warned that neglecting young people often breeds frustration and hostility, emphasizing that consistent engagement and inclusion remain the best approach to maintaining peace and social stability.
“Once you abandon the youths, they become aggressive because they feel excluded. But when you carry them along, assign responsibilities to them and make them part of governance, they become partners in development,” he said.
Expressing appreciation to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for appointing him, Enodeh described his appointment as one that aligns perfectly with his area of specialization.
“I thank His Excellency for finding me worthy to serve in an area where I already have practical experience. Leading youths has been part of my life, and I am committed to delivering on the confidence reposed in me,” he stated.
Ahead of the 2026 International Youth Day scheduled for August 12, the commissioner assured that preparations were already underway to ensure Delta youths have a memorable celebration.
He disclosed that the ministry had commenced documentation and planning to avoid delays, stressing that the state would not allow any shortcomings to affect the event.
“We don’t have much time, so preparations have started. Delta youths deserve a successful International Youth Day celebration. We want them to feel proud, appreciated and recognised as some of the happiest and most productive youths in Nigeria,” Enodeh said.
He further revealed that Governor Oborevwori had personally directed him to prioritise youth development and regularly provide recommendations on programmes that would improve the welfare and opportunities available to young people across the state.
“Our primary assignment is to focus on the youths. The Governor made it clear that youth development is a priority, and we are committed to delivering programmes that will positively impact their lives,” he affirmed.
and regularly provide recommendations on programmes that would improve the welfare and opportunities available to young people across the state.
“Our primary assignment is to focus on the youths. The Governor made it clear that youth development is a priority, and we are committed to delivering programmes that will positively impact their lives,” he affirmed.
