President Bola Tinubu on Monday inaugurated the Planning Committee for the National Youth Congress.
Speaking at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, he reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to youth empowerment, emphasising that government policies are designed to secure a prosperous future for the next generation.
He urged young Nigerians to take ownership of the country’s development.
“You are the hope of this country. Everything depends on your future,” Tinubu told the committee members, stressing that his administration’s decisions, including the removal of fuel subsidies, were aimed at ensuring long-term economic stability.
The idea for the youth conference was first mentioned in Tinubu’s Independence Day address on October 1, 2024, where he underscored the critical role young people must play in shaping Nigeria’s future. On Monday, he reinforced that message, charging the newly inaugurated committee with the responsibility of driving youth engagement in governance and national development.
“This government is all about you. You represent over 60% of our population – you are the heartbeat of our nation. Take this opportunity seriously,” Tinubu said.
The President acknowledged the economic challenges facing Nigeria but expressed optimism that the country is on the path to recovery.
“When we started, it looked foggy, uncertain, even 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 showing interest.”
Encouraging open dialogue, Tinubu invited young people to engage directly with his administration.
“Look me in the face, tell me what is wrong, and suggest how you want things done. If it benefits this country, we will implement it,” he assured.
He also urged the committee to explore innovative solutions in technology, agriculture, and entrepreneurship to enhance youth empowerment and national food security.
“Let’s employ technology in every way possible. Let’s examine our farming conditions. Let’s find ways to empower young people with their entrepreneurial spirit,” he said.
On a lighter note, Tinubu expressed admiration for the energy and potential of young Nigerians.
“I like you all. I can’t be young again—maybe in the next life. I’m envious of you,” he quipped.
In his remarks, Minister of Youth Development Ayodele Olawande highlighted the conference’s goal of promoting youth participation in governance.
Olawande noted that President Tinubu’s administration is committed to listening to young Nigerians and incorporating their ideas into national policies.
He emphasised that the committee members were carefully selected, with representatives drawn from the Federal Ministry of Finance, other key ministries, civil society organisations, non-governmental organizations, and the World Bank.
“The committee has been tasked with planning a conference that will have a lasting impact on the lives of Nigerian youth,” he said, urging young people to seize the opportunity to shape developmental policies.
Samson Itodo, Executive Director of Yiaga Africa and a lead member of the planning committee commended President Tinubu for recognizing the importance of youth participation in governance.
“I appreciate the President’s recognition of young people’s role in national development,” Itodo said.
He outlined that the 30-day National Youth Conference will include virtual consultations, regional meetings, and a final week of deliberations in Abuja. He also called on the government to ensure the conference remains free from political influence.
The Planning Committee is chaired by the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Youth Development.
Among the inaugurated members are Senator Asuquo Ekpeyong (Chairman, Senate Committee on Niger Delta Development Commission), Linus Okorie, Dr. Garba Aliyu, Babatunde Adeleke, Francis Sani, Azeezat Yishawu, Sukubo Sara-Igbe Sukubo, Hauwa Nana Ibrahim, Zara Goni, Oladele Nihi. Dare Ojepe, and Uchechukwu George Egbe and Samson Itodo.
Also represented in the committee are officials from the Federal Ministry of Finance, the World Bank, and various non-governmental organisations.
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