By Eunice Orike
Executive Chairman of Abuja Municipal Area Council AMAC, Christopher Maikalangu, has intensified efforts to promote youth empowerment, inclusive development and innovation as part of his administration’s grassroots development agenda.
The administration has focused on programmes aimed at improving the capacity of young people, expanding access to opportunities and strengthening community participation in the development of the council.
A major component of the initiative is the AMAC Digital 10K Agenda, which seeks to equip thousands of youths with digital skills and other competencies required to participate in the emerging digital economy.
The programme is expected to expose beneficiaries to areas including artificial intelligence, digital technology, innovation and entrepreneurship, while creating opportunities for young people to develop sustainable sources of income.
The administration has also explored strategic partnerships and engagements to expand opportunities available to youths and connect them with relevant knowledge, technology and enterprise opportunities.
The focus on youth development comes against the backdrop of growing demand for skills and employment opportunities among young Nigerians, particularly as technology continues to reshape the nature of work and business.
Another component of the administration’s development agenda is the Green AMAC initiative, which focuses on environmental sustainability, climate resilience and responsible development within the municipality.
The initiative is aimed at promoting environmental awareness and supporting development programmes that can contribute to a cleaner and more sustainable environment.
Maikalangu’s administration has said its approach to governance is centred on ensuring that residents are involved in the development process, irrespective of their age, background or social status.
Through community engagement, strategic partnerships and development programmes, the council leadership said it is seeking to ensure that government interventions address the needs of residents at the grassroots.
The administration has also emphasised the need for local government to move beyond routine administrative functions and focus on programmes capable of improving the livelihoods and wellbeing of residents.
The combination of youth empowerment, digital innovation and environmental initiatives forms part of the council’s broader efforts to create new opportunities and promote sustainable development across AMAC.
The administration said its ultimate objective is to build a municipality where residents can benefit from government programmes while young people are equipped with the skills and opportunities needed to contribute meaningfully to economic development.
