Tinubu’s Delayed Youth Conference Sparks Outrage: #EndBadGovernance Concerns Persist

President Tinubu’s promise of a 30-day National Youth Conference remains unfulfilled three months later, sparking outrage from civil society groups and young Nigerians demanding accountability and urgent reforms.

Tinubu’s National Youth Conference: Unkept Promise Fuels Youth Frustration

Months after President Bola Ahmed Tinubu promised a 30-day National Youth Conference in response to the #EndBadGovernance protests, Nigerians are questioning his administration’s commitment to addressing youth-related issues. The announcement, made during the October 1 Independence Day broadcast, had raised hopes for tangible dialogue and solutions. However, three months later, the promised conference remains unorganized, prompting criticism from civil society organizations (CSOs) and youth leaders.

Promised Engagement Nowhere in Sight

Chief Patrick Eholor, Founder of One Love Foundation, criticized the delay, stating, “The Youth Confab was a critical opportunity for the government to engage young people facing systemic challenges such as unemployment and lack of basic amenities. This silence is a betrayal of their hopes.”

Civil society voices echo similar sentiments. According to Global Rights Nigeria, Tinubu’s promise appeared more like a tactical move to quell tensions than a genuine effort to tackle youth grievances.

Structural Issues Plague Leadership Response

Andrew Mamedu, Country Director of ActionAid Nigeria, expressed concern over the delayed implementation. “This lack of urgency underscores the government’s failure to prioritize youth development,” he said. ActionAid emphasizes that meaningful change requires swift, inclusive action rather than rhetorical promises.

Additionally, the Executive Director of Global Rights Nigeria, Abiodun Baiyewu, underscored the importance of addressing root issues: “Systemic rot in law enforcement, corruption, and unemployment must be tackled. A youth conference alone cannot resolve these entrenched challenges.”

Renewed Skepticism Among Youth

The silence surrounding the promised conference has fostered growing disillusionment among young Nigerians. Many fear the government’s reluctance to act signifies an unwillingness to disrupt the status quo. Auwal Rafsanjani, Executive Secretary of CISLAC, emphasized the importance of sustained youth inclusion in governance.

“Nigeria’s youth, representing over 70% of the population, must have a seat at the table. Their marginalization drives restiveness, brain drain, and diminishing patriotism,” Rafsanjani said.

The Path Forward: Actions Over Promises

As the February 2025 date for the conference approaches, experts stress the need for actionable outcomes. Suggestions include:

Inclusive Participation: Ensure diverse representation across all geopolitical zones.
Actionable Roadmap: Develop clear policies addressing unemployment, education, and police reform.
Accountability and Transparency: Implement public feedback mechanisms for monitoring progress.

Civil society leaders argue that delays in implementing promises like the National Youth Conference undermine trust in governance. With youth unemployment and inflation at record highs, young Nigerians demand more than symbolic gestures—they need urgent, transformative action.

Key Takeaways

President Tinubu’s promise for a 30-day National Youth Conference remains unfulfilled three months later.
Civil society groups and youth leaders criticize the government’s inaction, calling for genuine engagement and reforms.
The government is urged to prioritize transparency, inclusivity, and actionable solutions to rebuild trust and foster nation-building.

By acting decisively and inclusively, the Tinubu administration has an opportunity to restore hope and empower Nigeria’s youth to drive the nation forward.