The President of the Defence and Police Officers’ Wives Association (DEPOWA), Mrs. Oghogho Gwabin Musa, on Friday, 12 September 2025, paid a courtesy visit to the Honourable Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande. She commended his numerous initiatives aimed at empowering Nigerian youths, particularly applauding the launch of the Nigeria Youth Academy in March 2025, which focuses on governance, policy-making, and community development, as well as the Youth Data Protection Awareness and Training Initiative that equips young people with vital skills for the digital economy.
During the visit, Mrs. Musa reiterated DEPOWA’s commitment to complementing government’s efforts in youth and women empowerment through programmes in health, education, fitness, and skills training. She appealed for the inclusion of barracks youth in the Ministry’s empowerment schemes, mentorship platforms, and access to funding, training, and equipment to help them pursue their passions and contribute meaningfully to society. She further extended a formal invitation to the Honourable Minister to partner with DEPOWA in its upcoming programmes, including the forthcoming Inter-School Sports Competition, designed to promote unity, discipline, and talent discovery among young people.
In his response, the Honourable Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, commended the President of DEPOWA Mrs. Oghogho Gwabin Musa, for her commitment to the welfare of the military and police families as well as her passion for youth and women empowerment. He acknowledged the immense sacrifices made by officers’ families, noting that their resilience and support for the nation’s security system deserve national and international recognition.
The Minister assured Mrs. Musa of the Ministry’s readiness to partner with DEPOWA in key initiatives that will extend empowerment, mentorship, and development opportunities to youth in the barracks. He also expressed interest in reviving youth-focused programmes such as the “Girls Charity” initiative, alongside new concepts like “Police Chats,” designed to guide young girls toward responsible choices and brighter futures. Honourable Olawande further welcomed DEPOWA’s invitation to collaborate in upcoming activities, including the forthcoming Inter-School Sports Competition, aimed at fostering unity, discipline, and talent discovery among young people.
Highlight of the visit included interactive session, presentation of plaques and group photographs.
