President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to youth empowerment, emphasizing that government policies are designed to secure a prosperous future for young Nigerians.
Speaking at the State House in Abuja on Monday, Tinubu inaugurated the Planning Committee for the National Youth Congress, urging young Nigerians to take ownership of the country’s development.
"You are the hope of this country. Everything hangs on your future," Tinubu told the committee members.
He stressed that his administration’s policies, including the removal of fuel subsidies, aim to ensure long-term economic stability. Tinubu first hinted at the youth conference during his Independence Day address on October 1, 2024, highlighting the critical role of young people in shaping Nigeria’s future.
During the inauguration, Tinubu charged the committee with charting a path for youth engagement in governance and development.
"Government of the day is all about you. You represent over 60% of our population; you’re the heartbeat of our nation. Take this opportunity seriously."
The President acknowledged the economic challenges but expressed optimism that Nigeria is on the path to recovery.
"When we started, it looked foggy, dicey, and hopeless. We were fetching water from a dry well," he recalled. "But today, the economy has turned the corner; prices are falling, confidence is improving, and investors are looking in."
Encouraging open dialogue, Tinubu invited the youth to speak up about issues affecting them.
"Look at me in the face, tell me whatever you think is wrong and how you want things done. We’ll try to implement all of it as long as it benefits the country," he assured.
He urged the committee to leverage technology, boost agriculture, and explore ways to empower young entrepreneurs to enhance national food security.
"Let’s employ technology in every way possible. Let’s improve our farming conditions and find ways to empower young people."
On a lighter note, Tinubu expressed admiration for the energy and potential of young Nigerians.
"I like you. I can’t be youth again—maybe in the next life. I’m envious of all of you," he quipped.
Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, highlighted that the conference would focus on youth engagement, policy-making, and governance. He assured young Nigerians that Tinubu’s administration is listening and ready to incorporate their ideas into national policies.
Executive Director of Yiaga Africa, Samson Itodo, commended Tinubu’s recognition of youth voices and emphasized that the 30-day National Youth Confab would include virtual consultations, regional meetings, and a final week-long summit in Abuja.
Itodo urged the government to keep the conference free from political influences to ensure credibility.
The Planning Committee, chaired by the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Youth Development, includes representatives from the Federal Ministry of Finance, the World Bank, Civil Society Organizations, and NGOs.
Among those inaugurated are Senate Chairman on Niger Delta Development Commission, Asuquo Ekpeyong, Linus Okorie, Dr. Garba Aliyu, Babatunde Adeleke, Francis Sani, Azeezat Yishawu, Sukubo Sara-Igbe Sukubo, Hauwa Nana Ibrahim, Zara Goni, Oladele Nihi, Dare Ojepe, Uchechukwu George Egbe, and Samson Itodo.
Dignitaries at the event included Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila; Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris; and Spokespersons to the President, Mr. Sunday Dare and Mr. Bayo Onanuga.