The Bola Tinubu administration has officially scheduled the much-anticipated Nigerian National Youth Conference for February 2025. This development aligns with the President’s Independence Day commitment to address pressing youth-centered issues, including unemployment, education, and political participation.
Tinubu’s Vision for Nigerian Youths
Speaking about the conference, President Tinubu stated, “This event aims to inspire meaningful dialogue and empower our young people to actively contribute to nation-building.”
However, the lack of follow-through since the announcement has sparked frustration among youth groups across the country. Organizations such as the Arewa Youth Consultative Forum (AYCF), Yoruba Youths Council, Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, and the Ijaw National Congress have voiced their dissatisfaction.
Reactions from Key Youth Leaders
- Zaid Ayuba, AYCF President, remarked, “The President’s announcement was a significant opportunity that has yet to materialize, leaving many youths disappointed.”
- Eric Oluwole, Yoruba Youths Council President, expressed similar sentiments: “Nigerian youths are unhappy with the delay in organizing the national youth conference.”
- Dr. Alex Ogbonnia, Ohanaeze Ndigbo spokesman, cautioned that prolonged delays could harm Tinubu’s credibility, emphasizing that the conference is vital to understanding youth aspirations.
- Ezonebi Oyekemeagbegha, Ijaw National Congress member, warned about the dangers of youth disengagement and apathy if swift action is not taken.
Government’s Assurance and Conference Structure
To address these concerns, Minister of Youth Development Ayodele Olawande announced that the conference would begin in the first week of February 2025. The month-long event will be action-driven and include:
- Grassroots Engagement (Two Weeks): Focus on community-level discussions to gather diverse perspectives.
- State and Local-Level Activities (One Week): Consolidate grassroots insights at higher governance levels.
- National Summit in Abuja (Final Week): Culmination of all discussions to craft actionable solutions.
Committees are already being formed to ensure the conference achieves meaningful outcomes. Olawande stressed, “This will not just be a symbolic event; it will deliver practical solutions for Nigerian youths.”
Task Force and Youth Representation
In October, Olawande revealed plans for a task force to implement the conference’s recommendations swiftly. “This is a done deal,” he assured, signaling the administration’s commitment to follow-through.
Meanwhile, the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has called for stronger youth representation in governance as part of the conference’s agenda.
Conclusion
The February 2025 National Youth Conference presents an opportunity for the Tinubu administration to bridge gaps between Nigerian youth and governance. With a structured approach and clear objectives, the event holds the promise of addressing critical challenges and fostering meaningful youth engagement in nation-building.
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