The Federal Government has reiterated the importance of involving young people in decision-making processes, emphasizing that no nation can effectively plan for its future without including its younger generation.
Vice President Kashim Shettima, represented by his Technical Adviser on Women and Youth Engagement, Hauwa Liman, made this assertion at the grand finale of the 60th Anniversary celebration of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) in Port Harcourt.
Speaking at the event, Shettima reassured the audience of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s dedication to ensuring youth inclusion at all levels of governance.
“Youth inclusion is not just a promise; it is a fundamental principle of this administration,” Shettima declared.
“President Tinubu believes that the young generation must have a seat at the decision-making table to secure the future of our nation.”
He highlighted the administration’s commitment to empowering Nigerian youths, citing several initiatives and programs aimed at providing opportunities across various sectors.
Among these is the Presidential Initiative for Youth Enterprise Clusters, which has allocated N110 billion to support young entrepreneurs in agriculture, technology, and industry.
In addition, Shettima pointed out the government’s strides in the digital and creative sectors, unveiling a $618 million initiative designed to support tech and creative enterprises.
He emphasized that these investments are aimed at positioning Nigerian youths to compete on a global scale.
“Young people are at the heart of this administration.
From appointing young ministers to driving youth-centered initiatives, we are creating an enabling environment for the next generation of leaders and innovators,” Shettima said.
The Vice President further highlighted the Youth Investment Fund, which continues to provide financial support for startups and small businesses.
In his address, the National President of NYCN, Sukubo Sara-Igbe Sukubu, commended the Federal Government’s efforts while urging Nigerian youths to focus on acquiring skills, particularly in technology.
“We must stop waiting for traditional white-collar jobs,” Sukubu remarked.
“Instead, let us seize opportunities in technology and entrepreneurship to make meaningful impacts on society.”
He also expressed gratitude to the Rivers State Government for hosting the 60th anniversary celebrations, encouraging young Nigerians to leverage the platforms provided to drive positive change.
The event underscored the Federal Government’s resolve to integrate youths into governance and foster their development through targeted programs.
As stakeholders rally behind these initiatives, the administration aims to harness the energy and creativity of young Nigerians to propel the nation forward.
This commitment aligns with President Tinubu’s vision of a prosperous Nigeria driven by an empowered and dynamic youth population.