President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to youth empowerment, inaugurating the Planning Committee for the National Youth Congress on Monday at the State House, Abuja. He emphasized that the future of Nigeria depends on its young population and urged them to take ownership of the nation’s development.
“You are the hope of this country. Everything hangs on your future,” Tinubu told the committee members, stressing that recent government policies, including the removal of fuel subsidies, were designed to secure long-term economic stability.
The National Youth Congress was first hinted at in Tinubu’s Independence Day address on October 1, 2024, as part of efforts to engage young Nigerians in governance. During Monday’s inauguration, the President charged the committee with ensuring meaningful youth participation in decision-making processes.
“Government of the day is all about you. You represent over 60% of our population. You are the heartbeat of our nation,” Tinubu said.
While acknowledging economic challenges, he expressed optimism about Nigeria’s recovery. “When we started, it looked so foggy, dicey, and hopeless. But today, the economy has turned the corner; prices are falling, confidence is improving, and investors are looking in,” he added.
The President also encouraged open dialogue, urging young Nigerians to voice their concerns and ideas. “Look at me in the face, tell me whatever you think is wrong and the way you want things done. We’ll try to implement all of it as long as it is for the prosperity of this country,” he assured.
Tinubu further highlighted the need for technology-driven solutions in agriculture, entrepreneurship, and food security. “Let’s employ technology every way possible. Let’s look at our farming conditions and see how we can empower young people in their drive for success,” he said.
The Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, reaffirmed that the conference aims to promote youth engagement in national policies. He praised the President’s commitment to youth inclusion in governance, stating that representatives from the Federal Ministry of Finance, other ministries, civil society organizations, and the World Bank will be involved in the planning.
A lead member of the planning committee and Executive Director of Yiaga Africa, Samson Itodo, lauded Tinubu’s recognition of youth issues, emphasizing that the 30-day National Youth Confab will include virtual consultations, regional meetings, and a final Abuja conference. He urged the government to ensure that the event remains free from political interference.
The committee is chaired by the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Youth Development, with members drawn from various government institutions and youth organizations.
Present at the inauguration were Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, and presidential spokespersons Sunday Dare and Bayo Onanuga.
The National Youth Congress is expected to address key issues affecting young Nigerians, including unemployment, education, and political participation.
