The Adolescents and Young People (AYP) Innovation Hub in Fimie, Abuloma, Rivers State was officially commissioned and transitioned by the Honourable Commissioner of Health, Rivers State Ministry of Health, Dr Mrs Adaeze Oreh, Commissioner for Health, Rivers State in a ceremony celebrating youth empowerment and innovation
The event drew government officials, development partners, community leaders, and hub participants, underscoring the collective effort to foster a generation of skilled, resilient, and socially responsible young Nigerians.
Speaking at the event, the Commissioner emphasized that equipping young people with skills, confidence, and access to opportunities remains a top priority for the administration. She noted that initiatives such as this strongly align with the state’s development agenda, HIV response priorities, and the broader vision of building a resilient, skilled, and productive youth population capable of driving long-term progress.
“The establishment of this Hub is a testament to what can be achieved through strong partnerships and shared commitment. By leveraging years of experience in HIV prevention, care, and treatment to create a safe, stigma-free, and youth-friendly innovation space, this hub goes beyond skills training — it creates opportunity, restores dignity, and nurtures hope, she said”
The Hub, supported by the US Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (US-CDC) through the Institute of Human Virology Nigeria (IHVN), was conceptualized in 2018 to provide a safe and supportive space for adolescents and young people. Its mission is to equip the youth with entrepreneurial, digital, and life skills, addressing vulnerabilities such as unemployment, limited social support, and lack of access to development opportunities.
Through structured training programs, mentorship, and holistic support services, the AYP Tech Hub helps participants build confidence, develop practical skills, and transition successfully into adulthood. The commissioning signifies a renewed commitment by the Rivers State Ministry of Health and partners to invest in sustainable youth development and create avenues for social and economic empowerment.Bottom of Form
The Institute of Human Virology, Nigeria (IHVN), Chief Operating Officer/ Managing Director, Dr Charles Olalekan Mensah described the commissioning as a milestone in transforming the facility into a dynamic space for opportunity, creativity, and empowerment for youth.
“IHVN remains committed to working closely with the Rivers State Government, the US Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (US-CDC), Project Hope, and the host community to ensure the long-term sustainability and impact of the AYP Innovation Hub,” Dr. Mensah said.
As part of the commissioning, the Commissioner was taken on a guided tour of the Hub, showcasing its training facilities, vocational spaces, ICT labs, and wellness support areas, giving her firsthand insight into the programs and services available to adolescents and young people.
