President Bola Tinubu has inaugurated a Planning Committee for a forthcoming youth conference, aimed at strengthening the economy and advancing opportunities for Nigerian youth, who make up over 60% of the country’s population.
Speaking at the State House, Tinubu assured the 44-member planning committee that the government would implement the outcomes of their deliberations even as he urged them to critically assess the nation’s challenges and propose solutions that would foster economic prosperity.
“I want to reassure you that you are the hope of this country, and everything depends on you. Every decision I have taken is for your future,” Tinubu said.
He pledged to provide guidance and support in addressing national challenges, emphasising that young people have a critical role in shaping Nigeria’s development.
“You have a great opportunity, and I am ready to listen to you. I have heard your spokesperson’s remarks. You have the power to drive the development of this country—it is all in your hands,” he added.
Tinubu cited the removal of the fuel subsidy as an example of a policy designed to secure a better future for the nation. He explained that the government aims to reverse human capital flight by improving the economy, implementing bottom-up policies that address citizens’ needs, and fostering a stronger sense of national ownership.
He also acknowledged the issue of professionals leaving Nigeria in search of better opportunities, stressing that if prosperity is restored at home and people are empowered, the urge to migrate will diminish.
Addressing the negative perception of politics, the President noted that while politicians face criticism, governance is ultimately about development and securing the future for generations to come.
He further stated that his economic reforms were beginning to yield positive results, citing a decline in the prices of goods, particularly foodstuffs, and a stabilisation of the exchange rate as key indicators of progress.
“When we started, the situation seemed uncertain and challenging. It felt like drawing water from a dry well. But today, the economy has turned a corner—prices are falling, confidence is growing, investors are showing interest, and technological advancements are taking place,” Tinubu said.
The Minister of Youth Development, Mr. Ayodele Olawande, expressed gratitude to the President for prioritising youth engagement. He highlighted key initiatives such as the student loan scheme, which has already benefitted over 260,000 students, as well as major infrastructural projects like the renovation of the Third Mainland Bridge and efforts to clear passport application backlogs.
Committee member Mr. Samson Itodo described the forthcoming conference as a milestone in youth involvement in national development. He outlined key areas of focus, including: political governance, economic transformation, future skills (Artificial Intelligence, climate change, and energy transition) and social cohesion and security.
He emphasised that the committee’s recommendations would provide a roadmap for Nigeria’s youth to drive meaningful change in the country.
