Nigeria's commitment to empowering its youth was on full display Friday, at the Silver Award Presentation Ceremony of the Duke of Edinburgh's International Award.

The event, attended by the Honourable Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr Wale Edun, recognized the outstanding achievements of young people aged 14 to 24 who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, social responsibility, and life skills

The Honourable Minister praised the awardees for their remarkable efforts in achieving the Silver Award, recognizing it as a significant milestone in their development while also urging them to strive for the Gold Award. He emphasized their crucial role in shaping Nigeria's future. *You are the future leaders of this country, and we count on you to keep pushing yourselves and reaching for excellence,* he stated

HM Edun also reaffirmed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's unwavering commitment to improving the lives of all Nigerians by reducing poverty and empowering  the younger generation, noting that
investment in the nation’s youth is essential for driving long-term national progress.

Since its introduction in Nigeria, the Duke of Edinburgh's International Award has positively impacted over 60,000 young people, fostering leadership, social responsibility, and key life skills through a structured and progressive framework with the guidance of over 2,000 adult mentors and volunteers, the programme continues to empower Nigerian youth to meet challenges head-on and prepare them for success in an increasingly complex world.

Other dignitaries at the Silver Award Presentation Ceremony include; the British Deputy High Commissioner, Mrs Gill Lever; Special Adviser to the Minister of Youth for State Development, Mr Tunde Yakub Prudent; Trustee of The International Award for Young People Nigeria, Mr Abdulrahman Sambo and Special Adviser to the Minister of Finance, Mrs Sanyade Okoli.

The Silver Award Presentation Ceremony is a testament to Nigeria's dedication to youth development and empowerment. As the country looks towards its future, it is clear that these young leaders will play a vital role in shaping the nation's success.