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FG Fixes February 2025 For National Youth Conference

Published

2 months ago

Dec 8, 2024.

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The Federal Government has confirmed February 2025 as the date for the much-anticipated National Youth Conference, which aims to address pressing issues like unemployment, education, and youth inclusion in governance.

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EKO HOT BLOG reports that the conference, initially announced by President Bola Tinubu during his Independence Day broadcast, will span 30 days, with three weeks dedicated to grassroots engagements and a final week in Abuja for delegates to deliberate on findings and policy recommendations. Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, disclosed that preparations are underway, and President Tinubu will inaugurate selected delegates by mid-January 2025.

“This won’t be the usual conference where we talk and spend money without results. We are working on a grassroots-focused approach, ensuring actionable outcomes,” Olawande stated. The final week will involve synthesizing feedback from federal constituencies and local government areas to formulate practical solutions.

Youth groups, however, have expressed frustration over delays since the announcement. The Arewa Youth Consultative Forum, Yoruba Youth Council, Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, and Ijaw National Congress accused the government of neglecting its commitment.

AYCF National President Zaid Ayuba lamented, “This delay undermines the credibility of the President’s promise. We need this platform to amplify the voices of young Nigerians and propose solutions for national development.” Similarly, Yoruba Youth Council President Eric Oluwole criticized the lack of urgency, calling for immediate action to prevent further disenfranchisement of Nigerian youths.

Ohanaeze spokesperson Alex Ogbonnia emphasized that the conference is critical to understanding youth aspirations, urging the government to prioritize it. The Ijaw National Congress warned that continued inaction could exacerbate youth disengagement and social unrest.

In response to criticism, Olawande assured stakeholders of the government’s commitment to delivering a result-oriented conference. He highlighted plans for a task force to implement conference recommendations through executive orders or legislative proposals.

National Association of Nigerian Students President, Lucky Emonefe, called for 50% youth representation in leadership roles, stressing the need for young voices in decision-making.

“We urge the government to act swiftly. This conference is a platform for youths to express their concerns and demands,” Emonefe stated.

The government’s grassroots approach marks a departure from previous conferences, with Olawande insisting on including fresh faces and perspectives to avoid past inefficiencies. “This is about results. We are not recycling the same participants,” he added.

National Youth Conference

With preparations in full swing, the February 2025 conference is poised to be a pivotal moment for Nigerian youths to shape policies and contribute to national development.