Odimmegwa Johnpeter/Abuja
The Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Youth Development, Dr. Maryam Ismaila Keshinro, has received the 2026 Civil Service Excellence Award on behalf of the Honourable Minister, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, and the Federal Ministry of Youth Development, in recognition of the outstanding performance and impact of the Youth Help Desk. This was contained in a statement signed by Omolara Esan, Director, Information and Public Relations, Federal Ministry of Youth Development.
The award was presented on 15 August 2026 by the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation (OHCSF) in recognition of the Help Desk’s exemplary performance in responsive, customer-focused, accountable and innovative service delivery.
The Youth Help Desk is a flagship initiative of the Honourable Minister of Youth Development, established to bridge the gap between government and Nigerian youths by providing an accessible platform through which young people can obtain information, seek assistance, lodge complaints and receive timely redress.
Established in 2024 in alignment with SERVICOM standards, the Youth Help Desk has handled over 5,000 citizen requests and resolved more than 4,100 cases, demonstrating the Ministry’s commitment to responsive and citizen-centred governance.
Receiving the award, Dr. Keshinro expressed her delight and appreciation for the recognition, describing it as a testament to the dedication and professionalism of the Ministry’s workforce. She noted that the award also demonstrates how effective policy implementation can translate into tangible and positive impact when government initiatives are designed to directly address the needs and concerns of citizens.
“I am delighted to receive this award on behalf of the Honourable Minister and the Federal Ministry of Youth Development. It is a significant recognition of the dedication and commitment of our officers and the impact of the Youth Help Desk in providing responsive and citizen-centred services.”
She noted that the recognition would further motivate the Ministry to strengthen the Help Desk and sustain innovative approaches to service delivery.
“This award is not only an honour but also a responsibility to do more. We will continue to improve our systems, listen to our citizens and ensure that Nigerian youths receive efficient, accessible and responsive government services.”
The OHCSF recognised the Youth Help Desk for “setting a benchmark for excellent performance and a legacy of transformative impact.”
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