7.8 ICT and Youth The youth are critical catalysts in Nigeria’s socio - economic development plans, and are acknowledged as an ICT-oriented generation. For Nigeria to harness the huge potential that ICT offers, it is important to leverage ICTs for positive youth orientation and development, as well as to ensure that youths use ICTs responsibly and productively. 7.8.1 Situation Analysis The National Youth Policy defines anyone between the ages of 18 and 35 as a Nigerian Youth. According to population statistics, seventy percent (70%) of Nigeria’s 167-million population fall into this group, making it foundational and critical to National development. However, unemployment, under-employment, and lack of entrepreneurial skills and / or opportunities present a very serious potential for increased social ills. 7.8.2 Objectives i. To leverage ICT in addressing Youth-specific development and orientation issues; and ii. To ensure that the Youth use ICT responsibly and for positive purposes. 7.8.3 Strategies The Government will: i. Promote the use of ICTs, in partnership with Youth-focused bodies and relevant MDA’s to deliver information and content that emphasize National Unity, tolerance and ethical values; ii. Support the delivery of programmes designed to ensure that the youth focus on positive application of ICT; iii. Promote Incentive and support schemes targeted at youth entrepreneurship initiatives in ICT; iv. Ensure that the youth are protected adequately in cyberspace; and v. Promote the utilisation of ICT in education delivery and management; and its incorporation in education curriculum at all levels. !"#$%&"'()*+(,%'$-.(/(0120( ( ( ,"34(58(