Delta Will Prioritise, Empowerment, Jobs to Fight Drug Abuse — Commissioner

The Delta State Commissioner for Youth Development, Brave Enodeh, has assured young people in the state that the administration of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori will prioritise job creation, skills acquisition and youth empowerment to tackle unemployment and curb drug abuse.
Enodeh, who was recently appointed and sworn in as commissioner by Governor Oborevwori, gave the assurance while speaking with journalists in Asaba, the Delta State capital, on Tuesday.
He said the ministry would introduce programmes aimed at equipping young people with practical skills, creating employment opportunities and steering them away from crime and other social vices.
According to him, the large number of youths who visited the ministry after his appointment reflected their eagerness to participate in government programmes.
“I was encouraged by the turnout of youths who came to welcome me and express interest in the activities of the ministry. It shows they have confidence in what the government is doing for them,” he said.
The commissioner thanked Oborevwori for the opportunity to serve, promising to justify the confidence reposed in him through hard work and the effective implementation of youth-focused programmes.
“I may not have enough words to thank the governor. The best way to appreciate him is to work hard and exceed expectations by ensuring that government policies on youth development are successfully implemented,” he said.
Enodeh also commended the participation of young people in the recent Continuous Voter Registration exercise, describing youths as a major force in Nigeria’s democratic process.
He urged them to remain actively involved in governance and continue supporting initiatives that would improve their future.
Speaking on unemployment, the commissioner said the ministry would prioritise vocational training, entrepreneurship and digital skills development to help young people become self-reliant.
He said the state government was determined to equip youths with the skills needed to compete successfully in today’s economy rather than relying solely on white-collar jobs.
“The focus of this government is on job creation, skills acquisition, sensitisation and digital empowerment. We want Delta youths to compete favourably with their peers anywhere in the world,” he said.
Enodeh described drug abuse as one of the biggest challenges facing young people, attributing it largely to idleness and negative peer influence.
He said the ministry would strengthen youth engagement programmes to keep young people productively occupied.
“When youths are idle, they become vulnerable to drug abuse and crime. Our responsibility is to engage them continuously, provide opportunities and guide them towards meaningful ventures,” he said.
The commissioner disclosed that the ministry was already developing programmes that would soon be rolled out to empower youths across the state.
He urged young people to remain patient, stay focused and prepare to take advantage of the opportunities that would be provided.
“I have spent many years working with young people as a youth leader and student leader. I understand their challenges, and I want them to know that this ministry is open to them. Together, we will build a brighter future for Delta youths,” he added.