Youth Empowerment Initiative as a Means to Overcome Poverty - Engagement of Youth in Sustainable Food Generation in Nigeria

Oludele M. Solaja, Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ago-Iwoye, Ogun State, Nigeria
Akinwale Ariwoola, University of Ibadan
Olumuyiwa Omobowale, University of Ibadan

This study examines youth empowerment initiative as a means to overcome poverty and the engagement of youth in sustainable food generation in Nigeria. The Adolescence Empowerment Cycle (AEC) model was employed as a theoretical guide in the study. A descriptive survey design was also adopted as the study methodology. The sample size was comprised of 245 participants of the Youth Empowerment Scheme (YES-O) in Oyo State, Nigeria who were selected through a multi-stage sampling technique. Both quantitative and qualitative data was collected through the use of a questionnaire and in-depth interviews. Findings revealed that youth empowerment initiative like small-scale retailing, crop and animal farming will significantly engage youths for productive developmental activities which can translate to poverty reduction and pro-poor growth. The implication of the research findings is that there is a need to engage the youth population in food generation activities as part of the empowerment program.