National youth conference shouldn’t be exploited for political gains, NYCN tells FG

The National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) has commended President Bola Tinubu for the planned national youth conference.

On October 1, Tinubu said the conference, which will last for 30 days, will unite Nigerian youths nationwide.

The president said the conference will “provoke meaningful dialogue and empower our young people to participate actively in nation-building”.

In a statement, Sukubo Sara-Igbe Sukubo, NYCN president, warned against exploiting the conference for political gains.

“The demand for a National Youth Conference has been a focal point for the NYCN during various engagements, particularly during the #EndBadGovernance protest, a protest that underscored the frustrations, hopes, and aspirations of young Nigerians, revealing the urgent need for a structured platform where their voices could be heard,” the statement reads.

The NYCN said it had written to Nuhu Ribadu, national security adviser, on the need for a critical national dialogue.

“The significance of this conference cannot be overstated. It offers Nigerian youths a vital opportunity to voice their grievances, propose actionable solutions, and actively participate in the governance process,” NYCN said.

“The NYCN firmly believes that this gathering will empower young people to articulate their views on issues that directly affect their lives, fostering a sense of ownership and responsibility toward the policies that govern them.

“The NYCN warns against any attempts by the Federal Government to exploit this initiative for political purposes or divert it from its original intent.

“The Federal Government and the Ministry of Youth Development must ensure that this initiative is not compromised. It is vital for the conference to focus on the needs and concerns of the youth, without being influenced by external political agendas.

“Maintaining the integrity of this platform is essential to effectively addressing the challenges faced by young Nigerians.

“The NYCN believes that the National Youth Conference will serve as a pivotal platform for identifying the myriad challenges facing young people and for proposing viable solutions.”

NYCN said the federal government should ensure that the recommendations from the conference are implemented.

“The perspectives and voices of Nigerian youths are essential for the nation’s progress, and this conference is a crucial step in ensuring that their views are acknowledged and acted upon,” the group added.