On the 18th of January 2024, a delegation from the Nigeria-Bangladesh Business and Technology Forum (NBBTF) embarked on a formal courtesy visit to the Ministry of Youth Development, with the primary focus on discussing potential collaborations pertaining to the Blue Economy and Skill Acquisition for the Nigerian youth.
The NBBTF delegation, comprising seven individuals, was led by Mr. Bob Achanya, the President of the forum. Notable attendees from the Ministry of Development included Dr. Jamila Bio Ibrahim, the Minister of Youth development, alongside the permanent secretary and other distinguished members of the Ministry.
The proceedings commenced with a national prayer followed by the introduction of the attendees. Mr. Bob Achanya, in his capacity as the President of NBBTF, presented the agenda, emphasizing the sustainable potential of the Blue Economy. He highlighted the forum’s past successful initiatives in Nigeria and proposed further actions that could significantly benefit the nation. Additionally, Mr. Achanya suggested the establishment of a committee to monitor and report progress, ensuring effective communication between the forum and the Ministry.
The Executive director Hon. Rosemary Osikoya from NBBTF elaborated on the ongoing skill acquisition program for youth, citing specific instances of success, such as the discovery of a skilled 12-year-old during the program. The Minister expressed keen interest in this initiative and requested a detailed report on extending opportunities to the grassroots level. The Minister suggested organizing youths into clusters for quality control and efficient resource utilization.
The meeting concluded with the adornment of the Minister by NBBTF’s administrative executive and the presentation of gifts from a previous visit to Bangladesh. It was emphasized that these gifts were locally made in Bangladesh, underscoring the potential for similar achievements in Nigeria if the forum’s proposals were accepted.
In summary, the courtesy visit proved to be purposeful, with the Minister actively engaging in discussions and expressing receptiveness to the forum’s proposals. Anticipation is high for the Ministry’s response regarding the establishment of the proposed committee and the support required for the forum’s initiatives to progress.
