The National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) has commended President Bola Tinubu for approving their request to convene a National Youth Conference focused on addressing the critical challenges facing Nigerian youth.
The council however warned against politicians’ plot to hijack the conference, just as it cautioned the federal Government and the Ministry of Youth Development to ensure the initiative is not compromised.
In his independence address, President Tinubu affirmed, “I am pleased to announce the gathering of a National Youth Conference. This conference will be a platform to address the diverse challenges and opportunities confronting our young people, who constitute more than 60 percent of our population.”
Reacting, NYCN president, Amb Sukubo Sara-Igbe Sukubo, said the initiative marks a significant milestone in promoting youth engagement and empowerment within the country, highlighting the government’s acknowledgment of the essential role young people play in shaping Nigeria’s future.
Sukubo, in a statement, said the demand for a National Youth Conference has been a focal point for the NYCN during various engagements, particularly during the #EndBadGovernance protests, “a protest that underscored the frustrations, hopes, and aspirations of young Nigerians, revealing the urgent need for a structured platform where their voices could be heard.”
He said after Tinubu’s announcement of the conference during the nationwide celebration of Nigeria’s 64th Independence on Tuesday, there was collective excitement among young people ahead of the gathering.
Stressing the significance of this conference, Sukubo said it offers Nigerian youth a vital opportunity to voice their grievances, propose actionable solutions, and actively participate in the governance process.
“The NYCN firmly believes that this gathering will empower young people to articulate their views on issues that directly affect their lives, fostering a sense of ownership and responsibility toward the policies that govern them.
“The NYCN warns against any attempts by the Federal Government to exploit this initiative for political purposes or divert it from its original intent. The Federal Government and the Ministry of Youth Development must ensure that this initiative is not compromised. It is vital for the conference to focus on the needs and concerns of the youth, without being influenced by external political agendas. Maintaining the integrity of this platform is essential to effectively addressing the challenges faced by young Nigerians.
“The NYCN believes that the National Youth Conference will serve as a pivotal platform for identifying the myriad challenges facing young people and for proposing viable solutions. It is vital that the government actively considers and implements the recommendations arising from this forum, as these insights reflect the aspirations and voices of Nigeria’s youth.”
While thanking the president for approving the National Youth Conference, the council president urged the federal government to ensure the gathering remains focused on empowering the youth and does not lose sight of its fundamental objectives.
“The perspectives and voices of Nigerian youth are essential for the nation’s progress, and this conference is a crucial step in ensuring that their views are acknowledged and acted upon. We anticipate a successful National Youth Conference that will pave the way for a brighter future for all young Nigerians. Together, let us strive toward building a more inclusive, prosperous, and united Nigeria,” he said.
He recalled that the demand for a National Youth Conference was reiterated at the NYCN’s visit to the Minister of Youth Development, Dr. Jamila Bio Ibrahim, on July 25; during a Youth Stakeholders meeting at the National Assembly; in NYCN’s communication with key government officials, including a letter to the National Security Adviser, Mal Nuhu Ribadu, dated July 27; and an International Youth Day press release issued on August 11.
