The Federal Government has announced that the National Youth Conference will take place in February 2025. President Bola Tinubu initially proposed this 30-day conference during his Independence Day address on October 1, 2024, aiming to tackle critical issues affecting Nigerian youths, such as unemployment, education, and political participation.
The conference is designed to foster meaningful dialogue and empower young Nigerians to actively engage in nation-building. By involving youths in shaping policies that impact their lives, the government seeks to create a pathway for a brighter future.
However, the delay in organizing the conference has led to frustration among various youth groups. Organizations like the Arewa Youth Consultative Forum, Yoruba Youths Council, Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, and the Ijaw National Congress have expressed disappointment over the government’s inaction since the initial announcement.
Zaid Ayuba, National President of the AYCF, criticized the government’s lack of follow-through, stating that it reflects a disinterest in youth development. Similarly, Eric Oluwole, President of the Yoruba Youths Council, emphasized the importance of youth inclusion in governance, noting that youths constitute 70% of the country’s population.
The spokesperson for Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, Dr. Alex Ogbonnia, added that the government’s inaction undermines its credibility and integrity.
In response to these concerns, the presidency has now set February 2025 as the date for the conference, reaffirming its commitment to addressing the challenges facing Nigerian youths.
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