The Bayelsa State Commissioner for Youth Development, Alfred Kemepado, has revealed that Governor Douye Diri sponsored 15 young leaders to attend a strategic training at the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS) in Plateau State, as part of a broader initiative to build future-ready leaders.
Kemepado explained that the move aligns with the governor’s vision of strengthening human capital and preparing a new generation of youths to step into key leadership roles within the state and beyond. The selected participants include 11 males and 4 females drawn from diverse youth platforms such as the National Youth Council of Nigeria, Nigerian Youth Parliament, Student Union Governments, Ijaw Youth Council, Federated and Community Youth Presidents, and the Ministry of Youth Development.
Speaking to journalists in Yenagoa following a courtesy visit by the beneficiaries, Kemepado praised the governor’s foresight, describing the initiative as a strategic investment in the minds of Bayelsa’s young population.
“The Prosperity Government of Governor Douye Diri is setting the pace in youth empowerment,” he stated. “This programme reflects his deep-seated belief that real development must begin with equipping young people with the right skills, knowledge, and exposure to thrive and compete on the global stage.”
Kemepado further noted that the initiative was a key component of the state’s Youth Policy Draft, focused on nurturing young people in policy, leadership, and nation-building. The selected youths are currently engaging in high-level discussions at NIPSS, Nigeria’s foremost policy think tank.
He emphasised that Governor Diri’s ASSURED agenda prioritises inclusive growth, placing young people at the center of governance, development, and global relevance.
“This is more than training; we are raising a generation of leaders equipped with vision, wisdom, and purpose,” he said. “Under this administration, we remain committed to expanding opportunities like this across every ward, local government, and community in Bayelsa.”
Kemepado concluded by lauding Governor Diri’s continued investment in youth development, describing it as a bold and strategic step towards shaping Bayelsa’s future.