Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, has sponsored 15 youths to participate in a specialized leadership and policy training at the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS) in Kuru, Plateau State. The initiative is part of the state’s broader commitment to developing the next generation of leaders.
Speaking to journalists in Yenagoa on Friday, the Commissioner for Youth Development, Alfred Kemepado, described the programme as a strategic move aligned with Governor Diri’s vision to invest in human capital and build a future-ready youth population.
The beneficiaries—11 males and 4 females—were carefully selected from various youth-focused bodies, including the National Youth Council of Nigeria, the Nigerian Youth Parliament, Student Union Governments, Centre for Youth Development, Ijaw Youth Council, and community youth presidents. Youth officers from the state’s Ministry of Youth Development were also among the selected participants.
Kemepado said the programme reflects the Prosperity Administration’s belief that a great nation must prioritize the aspirations and empowerment of its youth.
“Governor Diri’s government is championing youth empowerment by making meaningful investments in leadership training and strategic education,” Kemepado said.
“This is a key part of our youth development blueprint, aimed at preparing young Bayelsans to take up leadership roles in their communities and beyond.”
He explained that the training provides the young leaders with vital exposure to national policy formulation, leadership principles, and nation-building, delivered by experts at Nigeria’s premier policy think tank.
“They are engaging in deep, perspective-shaping discussions that equip them for higher responsibilities in governance, institutions, and civil society,” he added.
Kemepado emphasized that the initiative is grounded in the draft Bayelsa State Youth Policy and the administration’s ASSURED agenda, which prioritizes sustainable youth development and inclusion in decision-making processes.
“This is not just about sending people for training—it’s about shaping the minds that will shape Bayelsa’s future,” he said.
“We’re committed to replicating the benefits of this programme across all wards, local governments, and communities in the state.”
He praised Governor Diri’s foresight and reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to sustaining similar developmental programmes that empower youths to lead with purpose, vision, and integrity.
“Bayelsa is building more than leaders—we’re nurturing a generation equipped to drive meaningful change at home and on the global stage,” Kemepado concluded.
