President Bola Tinubu reiterated his commitment to the nation’s youth while speaking at the inauguration of the National Youth Congress Planning Committee at the Council Chambers, Presidential Villa, Abuja, on Monday.
The President explained that his decision to remove the fuel subsidy was made with the future of Nigeria’s unborn generations in mind.
“I’ve listened to you carefully, today is not for long speeches, I just want to reassure you that you are the hope of the country. Everything hangs on your future, every decision that I’ve taken is all about tomorrow,” President Tinubu stated.
He continued, emphasizing the importance of youth involvement in national development, adding, “When you remove oil subsidy, you’re protecting the future of generations yet unborn, the youth. Where’s the investment for the infrastructure? When you grow prosperity back home and empower people, they will not bother to leave; they will stay home.”
The President expressed his belief that the future of Nigeria rests with its youth and urged the newly inaugurated committee to take their role seriously, noting, “You represent over 60 percent of our population, you’re the heartbeat of our nation.”
Tinubu also reflected on the progress the country has made economically since his administration’s difficult decisions, stating, “The economy has turned the corner, prices are falling, confidence in our economy is improving, investors are looking in, technology is advancing. You have the opportunity.”
In closing, he assured the committee that his administration would continue to work for the prosperity of the youth. “It’s in your hands… we’ll try to implement all of it as long as it is for the prosperity of this country,” he affirmed.
The event also saw remarks from Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, who expressed that President Tinubu’s administration is focused on listening to the youth and incorporating their ideas into governance.
Executive Director of Yiaga Africa, Samson Itodo, commended the President’s recognition of youth as key players in the nation’s future.
With the youth confab on the horizon, the planning committee is poised to lead efforts in empowering Nigeria’s young population.