The Afro-Arab Youth Council (AAYC) has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his commitment to youth empowerment, particularly with the inauguration of the National Youth Conference Planning Committee.
The council described the initiative as a “groundbreaking step” that affirms the administration’s dedication to giving Nigerian youth a definitive voice in national development.
Speaking on the initiative, Amb. Akoshile Mukhtar, West Africa Coordinator of the AAYC, hailed the President’s resolve to prioritize youth engagement in governance and policy-making.
“For the first time in Nigeria’s history, we are witnessing a government that not only acknowledges the importance of youth participation but is actively creating platforms to integrate young people into decision-making processes. The National Youth Conference is a bold and commendable move that will ensure that Nigerian youth contribute meaningfully to shaping the country’s future,” Mukhtar stated.
He further highlighted the administration’s unprecedented appointments of young Nigerians to key positions in government as a demonstration of its commitment to youth inclusion.
“President Tinubu has gone beyond mere rhetoric by appointing capable young professionals to high-ranking positions across diverse sectors. This is a clear signal that the government recognizes the dynamism and potential of young people in driving national development,” he added.
The AAYC noted that notable young appointees have been entrusted with significant responsibilities, reflecting a deliberate effort to foster youth leadership at the highest levels of governance.
Amb. Mukhtar urged all relevant stakeholders, including the private sector, civil society organizations, and development partners, to support the forthcoming National Youth Conference to ensure that deliberations translate into actionable policies.
“This conference is an opportunity to chart a sustainable course for youth-led development in Nigeria. We call on all stakeholders to actively participate and ensure that the voices of young Nigerians are not only heard but also implemented in national policies,” he emphasized.
The Afro-Arab Youth Council reaffirmed its commitment to collaborating with the Nigerian government in advocating for youth development, economic empowerment, and regional cooperation across Africa and the Arab world.
The National Youth Conference, which is expected to bring together young leaders, policymakers, and development partners, is set to take place later this year, with discussions focusing on governance, innovation, entrepreneurship, and security.
