By Hassan Osman Kargbo
The Minister of Youth Affairs, Hon. Ibrahim Sannoh, on Friday, 17th October 2025, paid a courtesy visit to the National Youth Service (NYS) headquarters, where he met with the management, staff, and board members of the institution. The visit formed part of the Minister’s ongoing engagement with agencies under his ministry, aimed at fostering collaboration, boosting staff morale, and strengthening institutional performance.
Upon arrival, Minister Sannoh was warmly received by the Executive Director of the National Youth Service, Mr. Onanah Jalloh, alongside members of the management and staff, who expressed their appreciation for his visit. Mr. Jalloh extended a heartfelt welcome to the Minister, noting that his presence was both timely and inspiring, as it came at a period when the institution continues to scale up its operations and expand its national footprint.
In his brief but inspiring statement, Minister Sannoh made it clear that his visit was not to praise or criticize anyone but to meet with the staff and management team, share words of encouragement, and offer advice that would help guide and strengthen the NYS family. He emphasized the importance of teamwork and collective responsibility in achieving the goals of the institution.
“A house divided against itself cannot stand,” Minister Sannoh reminded the gathering. “That is why it is essential that we remain united, focused, and supportive of one another in the discharge of our duties.” He encouraged both the management and staff to always maintain open communication, mutual respect, and a shared sense of purpose in their service to the country’s young people.
The Minister further urged the team to embrace the spirit of service and humility, noting that leadership positions and professional responsibilities are opportunities to serve, not to seek personal glory. “We are here to serve,” he stated firmly. “Nothing is permanent. The best legacy we can leave behind is the impact we create and the difference we make in the lives of others.”
Minister Sannoh commended the dedication of the NYS staff and the invaluable contribution of the youth volunteers serving across various regions of Sierra Leone. He described them as the true embodiment of national service and patriotism, encouraging them to continue to work hard and uphold the values of discipline, commitment, and integrity.
He also assured the institution of his ministry’s continued support in addressing challenges and ensuring that the NYS fulfills its mandate of promoting youth empowerment, civic responsibility, and national development.
In his response, the Executive Director, Mr. Jalloh, expressed gratitude to the Minister for his leadership and genuine interest in the progress of NYS. He reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to working closely with the Ministry of Youth Affairs to achieve shared objectives.
The meeting ended on a positive note, with renewed optimism among staff and management. Minister Sannoh’s message of unity, service, and teamwork resonated strongly, leaving behind a sense of encouragement and purpose within the NYS family.
