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The Honourable Minister of Youth Development, Hon. Ayodele Olawande, has urged the Scout Association of Nigeria (TSAN) to take more proactive steps in engaging young people, stressing the need to channel their energy into meaningful and productive ventures.

He made this call during a courtesy visit by a high-powered delegation of the Scout Association, led by its Chief Commissioner, Mr. Umar Muhammad. The delegation, which included members of the National Executive Committee, Zonal Officers, and sectional leaders, was received at the Minister’s office in Abuja.

Hon. Olawande expressed concern that little had been heard about the activities of the Scouts since he assumed office, noting that the inactivity of such a recognised voluntary youth organisation had contributed to the decline in responsible values among young people.

Minister of youth development, Hon. Ayodele Olawande flanked by members of Scout Association of Nigeria, during a courtesy call to his office.

In his remarks, Mr. Muhammad briefed the Minister on the current state of the Association, outlining its challenges and calling for urgent government intervention. He appealed to the Ministry of Youth Development to support efforts aimed at repositioning scouting in Nigeria.

The Minister engaged in an interactive session with the delegation, carefully listening to their concerns and pledging to work with them to address the issues raised. As a symbolic gesture of entrusting the organisation to the Ministry, the Chief Commissioner presented the Scout Flag to Hon. Olawande, after which the Minister was officially invested according to tradition.

The visit was rounded off with a group photograph to mark the occasion.

Those who accompanied the Chief Commissioner included Hon. Justice Christopher Awubra, Deputy Chief Scout; Rev. Fr. Christopher Nnubia, FCT State Scout Commissioner; Alhaji Balanku Vanakoa, Taraba State Scout Commissioner; Dr. Raj Bomodeoku, Member West Africa Scout Committee; Mr. Simple Abdullahi, Assistant Chief Commissioner, South West; Alhaji Gambo Ado, former National Scout Board Chairman; along with other officers from the South West, North West, departmental heads, and representatives from the Sea and Air Scouts.

About Scouting in Nigeria

Scouting in Nigeria began in 1915 under Lord Lugard and is overseen by the Scout Association of Nigeria, a member of the World Organization of the Scout Movement. The organization focuses on youth character development, leadership, and community service, with historical and ongoing efforts to promote Scouting in schools and the wider community. T.A. Bankole was a significant figure in expanding the movement after Nigeria’s independence, and prominent Nigerians have served on international Scout committees.

Scouting aims to develop self-reliant, supportive, and responsible individuals.