Tinubu Reaffirms Commitment to Youth Empowerment, Inaugurates National Youth Congress Planning Committee

Abuja – President Bola Tinubu has reiterated his administration’s dedication to youth empowerment, emphasizing that government policies are strategically designed to secure a prosperous future for young Nigerians.

Speaking at the inauguration of the Planning Committee for the National Youth Congress at the State House in Abuja on Tuesday, Tinubu urged Nigerian youth to take charge of the nation’s development.

“You are the hope of this country. Everything depends on your future,” the President told the committee members, underlining the critical role young people must play in shaping Nigeria’s trajectory.

The formation of the committee aligns with Tinubu’s promise made in his Independence Day address on October 1, 2024, where he first hinted at convening a youth-focused national conference. Yesterday, he took a significant step toward fulfilling that commitment by mandating the committee to design a roadmap for youth participation in governance and national development.

Empowering the Next Generation

President Tinubu stressed that his administration's policies, including the removal of fuel subsidies, were taken with the long-term goal of ensuring economic stability. He acknowledged the economic difficulties the country has faced but expressed optimism about the nation’s recovery.

“When we started, it looked so uncertain, difficult, and discouraging. We were drawing water from a dry well. But today, the economy has turned the corner. Prices are falling, confidence is improving, and investors are paying attention,” he said.

Encouraging the youth to be proactive, the President invited open dialogue, urging young Nigerians to voice their concerns and offer solutions for national progress.

“Look at me in the face, tell me whatever you think is wrong, and how you believe it should be done. As long as it contributes to the prosperity of this country, we will strive to implement it,” Tinubu assured.

He further encouraged the committee to leverage technology and explore avenues to boost agriculture, entrepreneurship, and national food security.

“We must embrace technology in every possible way. Let’s assess our farming conditions, and let’s hear innovative ideas on empowering our young people to fulfill their aspirations,” he said.

A Government That Listens

The Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, also spoke at the event, reaffirming the administration’s commitment to youth engagement. He described Tinubu’s leadership as one that listens to young Nigerians and actively incorporates their contributions in governance.

According to Olawande, the committee comprises representatives from key ministries, civil society organizations, non-governmental organizations, and international development partners like the World Bank. Their task is to organize a conference that will drive policies impacting Nigerian youth.

“The government is committed to creating opportunities for young people and addressing their concerns. This conference will serve as a platform for youth participation in policy formulation,” the Minister stated.

Ensuring a Meaningful Youth Conference

Samson Itodo, Executive Director of Yiaga Africa and a lead member of the planning committee, commended Tinubu’s recognition of youth contributions. He called for the conference to be devoid of political influences to ensure its effectiveness.

“The 30-day National Youth Confab will consist of virtual consultations, regional meetings, and a final week of engagements at the Abuja conference. This initiative is a step in the right direction,” Itodo explained.

The committee is chaired by the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Youth Development. Other members include Senator 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 several others.

Representatives from the Federal Ministry of Finance, the World Bank, and non-governmental organizations are also part of the planning committee.

A Call to Action

Present at the inauguration were the Chief of Staff to the President, Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila; Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris; and Presidential spokespersons Bayo Onanuga and Sunday Dare.

On a lighter note, Tinubu expressed admiration for the energy and potential of young Nigerians, joking, “I like you. I can’t be young again—maybe in my next life—but I am envious of you all.”

As the committee embarks on its mission, the President’s charge is clear: young Nigerians must seize this opportunity to shape their future and contribute meaningfully to national development.