06/08/2026
NAYCOM RECORDS ONE YEAR OF REFORM AND YOUTH EMPOWERMENT UNDER COMMISSIONER LAHAI
The National Youth Commission on Thursday held a press briefing at its Headquarters in Freetown to present its One Year Transformational Leadership Report on institutional achievements for youth development.
Commissioner Joseph Maada Lahai, who assumed office on August 6, 2025 following his appointment by President Julius Maada Bio, said the past year focused on strengthening NAYCOM’s systems and expanding opportunities for young Sierra Leoneans under the theme “Counting the Gains: Transformational Leadership in Advancing Institutional Achievement for Youth Development.'"
According to Commissioner Lahai, restoring discipline was an early priority. He disclosed that about 98% of NAYCOM staff now report to work punctually, and that three new directorates have been created to improve efficiency and service delivery.
On skills and jobs, Commissioner Lahai said over 4,000 young people have been trained so far against a target of 8,000. He added that TVET scholarships have been extended beyond urban centers to rural communities to ensure fair access.
He also announced ongoing rehabilitation works at the Obasanjo Skills Training College and the introduction of a maritime skills program for young people.
Commissioner Lahai called on all development partners to increase support for youth programs.
He also appealed to government and law enforcement to view commercial bike and tricycle riders as productive citizens, and urged young people to avoid drug abuse and embrace education and skills.
The Commissioner expressed appreciation to President Bio and the Ministry of Youth Affairs for their support.
Board Chairman Saidu Alie Lakoh commended the Commissioner and staff for their dedication. He described the leadership as “visionary and transformative” and reaffirmed the Board’s commitment to supporting NAYCOM’s youth development agenda.
Director of Monitoring and Evaluation, Yusuf S. Kamara, presented details of the Commission’s performance and strategic direction. He reported that between August 2025 and August 2026, 1,300 youths were certified in vocational and digital skills, including 749 trained specifically in digital skills. He added that the Commission supported about 4,100 youth-led SMEs in Bo, Makeni and Freetown to boost entrepreneurship and job creation.
Director Kamara said the National Youth Strategic Plan is built on five pillars, Organizational and Institutional Development, Youth Employment and Employability, Youth Civic Engagement and Governance, Partnership and Revenue Mobilization, and Health, Well-being and Technology. He noted that the plan was developed following consultations with former NAYCOM Commissioners, and despite challenges such as limited resources, the Commission has made significant progress.
As NAYCOM enters its second year, the Commission remains committed to building stronger institutions and creating more opportunities for Sierra Leone’s youth.
