Youth minister supports protests, says he’d join If time permitted

The Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, has expressed support for the ongoing protest by the Take It Back Movement, stating that he would have joined the demonstration himself if time permitted.

Speaking to journalists in Abuja on Monday after the 2025 Annual Management Conference of the National Youth Service Corps, the minister emphasised the right of Nigerian youths to express their grievances peacefully.

“Everyone has the right to protest. If I even have the time, I will go and join the protest,” Olawande said.

He stressed that while peaceful protest is a democratic right, destruction of government property and violent conduct would not be tolerated, especially when such acts could harm the nation’s economy.

“Youths should speak their minds, but they shouldn’t be violent, and government infrastructure should not be destroyed,” he said.

According to the minister, the Federal Government has not suppressed protests and is open to addressing the concerns of citizens.

“No government has stopped anyone from protesting and pouring out their grievances,” Olawande said. “They will be listened to and be addressed. I will be there to address them if I even have the time.”

The minister’s remarks come amid rising demonstrations by the Take It Back Movement, which has drawn participation from youths across several states.

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