President Bola Tinubu has assured that the ongoing economic reforms will reverse human capital flight and create a more prosperous future for Nigerian youths. Speaking at the inauguration of the National Youth Conference Planning Committee at the State House on Monday, Tinubu emphasized that strengthening the economy and implementing inclusive policies would encourage professionals to remain in the country.
“I want to reassure you that you are the hope of this country, and everything hangs on you. Every decision I have taken is about you. It’s about the future,” Tinubu said. “When we removed the fuel subsidy, it was because we wanted to protect your future. We have cleared the path for you to have a great future.”
He noted that economic migration stems from a lack of opportunities, adding that improved prosperity and empowerment would discourage Nigerians from seeking greener pastures abroad.
The 44-member planning committee for the upcoming National Youth Conference was tasked with shaping discussions on key national issues. Tinubu assured that the government would implement the committee’s recommendations.
“This is your opportunity to develop the nation and make it prosperous. The government of today is all about you,” he said. “You are the heartbeat of our nation, and I hope you take this responsibility seriously.”
The President highlighted the progress made through economic reforms, pointing to declining prices of goods, a stabilizing exchange rate, and renewed investor confidence.
“When we started, it looked so foggy, dicey, and hopeless. We worked hard, and it was like drawing water out of a dry well. But today, the economy has turned the corner; prices are falling, confidence in our economy is improving, investors are looking this way, and technology is advancing,” he said.
Encouraging open dialogue, Tinubu urged committee members to be candid in their discussions.
“Just look me in the face and tell me whatever you think is wrong and the way forward. Be frank. We will implement your suggestions so long as they are for the country’s prosperity,” he assured.
Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, praised Tinubu for prioritizing youth development, citing the administration’s student loan scheme, infrastructural improvements like the Third Mainland Bridge renovation, and efforts to clear the passport backlog.
A committee member, Samson Itodo, described the National Youth Conference as a milestone in youth inclusion. He outlined priority areas for discussion, including political governance, economic transformation, future skills such as artificial intelligence, climate change, energy transition, and security.
The framework for the conference will include virtual consultations, calls for memoranda, regional town hall meetings, and a final session in Abuja.
The event reaffirmed Tinubu’s commitment to youth empowerment as a key pillar of national development.
