President Bola Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to youth empowerment, emphasizing the importance of shaping a prosperous future for the nation’s next generation. Speaking at the inauguration of the Planning Committee for the National Youth Congress at the State House in Abuja on Monday, Tinubu urged young Nigerians to take an active role in the country’s development.
“You are the hope of this country, everything hangs on your future,” the President stated, underscoring the pivotal role youth will play in Nigeria’s trajectory. He encouraged the committee to embrace this responsibility, noting that his policies, including the controversial fuel subsidy removal, were aimed at securing Nigeria’s long-term economic stability.
Having alluded to the creation of a youth conference in his Independence Day speech on October 1, 2024, Tinubu followed through with his promise by launching the initiative. He tasked the committee with charting a path for youth involvement in governance and national development.
“You represent over 60% of our population, you are the heartbeat of this nation. Take this opportunity seriously,” Tinubu added. He acknowledged the economic challenges Nigeria has faced but expressed optimism for the future, citing improvements in the economy, falling prices, and increasing investor confidence.
Calling for open dialogue, Tinubu invited the youth to share their concerns and ideas, reassuring them that their suggestions would be taken seriously. “Tell me what’s wrong and how you want things done. We’ll implement what benefits this country,” he promised.
In his speech, the President encouraged the youth to embrace technology, particularly in boosting agriculture, entrepreneurship, and food security, highlighting the potential of technology to empower Nigerian youth.
Reflecting on his own experiences, Tinubu humorously expressed admiration for the energy and potential of young Nigerians, saying, “I like you. I can’t be youth again, maybe in the next life, I’m envious of all of you.”
Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, also spoke at the event, explaining that the youth conference would offer a platform for active youth participation in governance. Olawande emphasized that the government was attentive to youth concerns and ready to incorporate their ideas into policy-making.
The committee, which includes representatives from the Federal Ministry of Finance, civil society organizations, NGOs, and the World Bank, is tasked with planning the youth conference. The event is designed to provide the youth with opportunities to contribute to Nigeria’s development.
Samson Itodo, Executive Director of Yiaga Africa and a key member of the committee, praised Tinubu’s commitment to recognizing the importance of youth in shaping Nigeria’s future. He outlined the conference’s structure, which includes virtual consultations, regional meetings, and a final week-long event in Abuja.
Itodo also urged the government to ensure the confab remains free from political influence, highlighting its potential to make a meaningful impact on Nigeria’s youth.
The committee is chaired by the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Youth Development, with notable members including Senate Committee Chairman on Niger Delta Development, Senator Asuquo Ekpeyong, and several prominent youth leaders.
The inauguration ceremony was attended by key officials, including Chief of Staff to the President, Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, Minister of Information Mohammed Idris, and Presidential spokespeople Bayo Onanuga and Sunday Dare.