The Federal Government has scheduled the national youth conference for February 2025, as part of its efforts to address pressing issues affecting Nigerian youths, including unemployment, education, and political participation
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President Bola Tinubu announced the 30-day conference during his Independence Day broadcast, describing it as a platform to foster meaningful dialogue and empower young Nigerians to contribute actively to nation-building. However, nearly three months after the announcement, the lack of concrete updates has sparked frustration among youth groups.
Mixed Reactions from Youth Leaders
Youth organizations such as the Arewa Youth Consultative Forum (AYCF), Yoruba Youths Council, Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, and Ijaw National Congress have expressed disappointment at the delay, accusing the government of failing to prioritize youth development.
Zaid Ayuba, National President of AYCF, criticized the delay as indicative of a lack of commitment. He emphasized the importance of the conference as a platform for presenting innovative solutions and amplifying young voices in governance. Similarly, Eric Oluwole, President of the Yoruba Youths Council, lamented the neglect of Nigerian youths, highlighting their majority demographic status and the urgent need for their inclusion in decision-making.
Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide’s spokesperson, Dr. Alex Ogbonnia, and Ijaw National Congress Publicity Secretary, Ezonebi Oyekemeagbegha, warned that continued delays could erode trust in Tinubu’s administration and exacerbate youth disengagement.
Government Responds
The Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, addressed concerns by confirming the conference would commence in early February 2025, spanning a month. He explained that the format would involve three weeks of grassroots engagement before a final week of deliberations in Abuja.
“This will not be a typical conference focused on talk and spending money. It will be action-oriented,” Olawande said. He noted that the President had directed a result-driven approach, emphasizing grassroots involvement and avoiding the mistakes of previous efforts.
The government plans to set up committees and select diverse delegates, with Tinubu expected to inaugurate participants in January 2025. A task force will also be established to ensure swift implementation of recommendations through executive orders or legislative proposals.
Youth Leaders Call for Swift Action
Nigerian youths, represented by the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) President, Lucky Emonefe, urged the Federal Government to expedite preparations. Emonefe stressed the importance of youth representation in public leadership and expressed hopes that the conference would address longstanding challenges.
“Our demand is that at least 50% of leadership positions in government should be occupied by youths. This conference is an opportunity for Nigerian youths to express their concerns and influence policymaking,” Emonefe said.
Looking Ahead
As preparations for the February 2025 youth conference gain momentum, stakeholders are optimistic but cautious, urging the Tinubu administration to match words with actions and deliver meaningful outcomes for the nation’s youth.
