In a significant development for youth engagement and digital education, the Federal Ministry of Youth Development has announced that the registration period for the Youth Data Protection Awareness and Training (YDPAT) Program has officially ended, revealing that an impressive number of over 58,820 young Nigerians signed up for the initiative within just 53 days.
This program, launched in collaboration with the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) and Globe Takers Foundation, aims to equip the youth with essential knowledge about data protection, digital awareness, and personal growth—a vital need in today’s digital landscape.
According to the Ministry, the overwhelming turnout reflects the eagerness of Nigerian youth to engage with critical issues surrounding data security and digital literacy.
Honourable Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, praised the remarkable response from the youth, stating, “This registration shows a strong commitment to nation-building among young people.
“We are excited to see such an enthusiastic response”.
He assured registrants that they would benefit from the Ministry’s broader youth development initiatives, designed to empower and support Nigeria’s youth.
The training, he said in a statement on Tuesday by Mrs Omolara Esan, Director, Information and Public Relations, will commence with an initial cohort of 5,000 participants, who will be selected to ensure a fair representation of all six geopolitical zones.
Adding that the training will begin with this group.
The Minister emphasized that the remaining registrants would be engaged through other relevant programs, ensuring that all interested youths have opportunities for involvement.
“The YDPAT training will adopt a hybrid format, incorporating both online and physical sessions, thereby making it accessible to participants irrespective of their locations across Nigeria.
“The participants’ selection process is currently underway and will continue throughout September, with results expected to be announced and accredited in October. Virtual training is set to commence in November, followed by in-person sessions scheduled for December 2025.
“As the Ministry moves into this crucial phase of the initiative, it is calling on development partners, private sector stakeholders, and state governments to join efforts in supporting and collaborating on the YDPAT program” he noted.
Minister Olawande stressed the importance of a collective approach to maximize the program’s reach and impact, ultimately enabling a greater number of young Nigerians to gain benefits from digital inclusion and enhanced data protection skills.
He stated that the Federal Ministry of Youth Development is dedicated to fostering a digitally aware and empowered generation capable of safeguarding their rights in the digital space while actively contributing to the growth and security of Nigeria’s data-driven economy.