The Federal Government, through the Federal Ministry of Youth Development, is taking a major step to formalize Youth Work as a distinct profession in Nigeria. This initiative, championed in partnership with Yakubu Gowon University and the Nigeria Youth Workers Association (NYWA), has received the approval of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. This decision follows a resolution from the National Council on Youth Development in December 2024.
The first workshop to kick off this transformative agenda, themed “The Nexus between Professionalisation of Youth Work and the Demographic Dividends,” was held at Yakubu Gowon University.
Global Standards for Youth Work
Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, highlighted the importance of this move by referencing international best practices from countries like the UK, Canada, and Australia. These nations have established qualifications, regulatory bodies, and clear career paths for youth workers. The minister emphasized that this structured approach is crucial for delivering effective interventions that support young people’s well-being, learning, and social engagement.
The minister outlined that the professionalization of youth work in Nigeria will be built on three core pillars:
- Professional Ethics, Standards, and Competency
- Academic Pathways for Human Capital Development
- Robust Regulatory Frameworks
As a demonstration of commitment, Minister Olawande enrolled in the program as a pioneer student. The ministry will initially adapt the Commonwealth Youth Programme (CYP) Diploma in Youth Work training modules as a starting point.
Acknowledging the Value of Youth Workers
According to the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Youth Development, Olubunmi Olusanya, the contributions of youth workers in Nigeria have long been undervalued. This initiative seeks to bridge that gap by creating a framework that will elevate youth workers into certified professionals, ultimately improving the quality of youth development across the country.
The Chairman of the Federal Civil Service Commission, Professor Tunji Olaopa, noted that this move will institutionalize youth work by establishing clear professional standards and academic pathways. This will ensure that those who work with youth are properly equipped and recognized for their crucial role.