By Adenike Lawal
The Federal Government has announced a National Youth Conference for February 2025, aiming to address key issues like unemployment, education, and political inclusion.
President Bola Tinubu revealed the plan during his Independence Day address, describing it as a response to youth-led protests such as the #EndBadGovernance and #FearlessOctober movements in 2024.
The 30-day conference is expected to empower youth participation in nation-building, with grassroots engagements preceding a final convergence in Abuja.
Minister of Youth Development Ayodele Olawande assured that this event will focus on actionable outcomes, including committees to implement recommendations.
However, youth groups, including the Arewa Youth Consultative Forum, Yoruba Youths Council, Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, and Ijaw National Congress, have criticized the government for delays and lack of follow-up.
They warn that continued inaction could fuel youth disengagement and social unrest.
Critics, like the Democratic Socialist Movement, dismissed the initiative as a “diversionary tactic,” while the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), has called for immediate action to ensure meaningful youth inclusion in governance.
While optimism surrounds the conference, doubts linger over its potential to deliver lasting solutions for Nigerian youth.
