The Ndigbo in Lagos State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has expressed strong support for President Bola Tinubu’s plans to convene a national youth conference aimed at addressing pressing issues affecting young people in Nigeria.
A Platform for Dialogue
In a recent interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), the Deputy Apex Leader of the group, Mr. Jude Idimogu, praised Tinubu’s initiative, which was announced during his nationwide broadcast marking Nigeria’s 64th Independence anniversary. The president highlighted that the conference would serve as a platform for meaningful dialogue, empowering the youth to actively participate in nation-building and to voice their concerns regarding policies that impact their lives.
Focus Areas of the Conference
The 30-day conference is set to focus on critical issues such as education, employment, innovation, security, and social justice. According to Tinubu, the conference aims to unite young people across the nation, encouraging collaborative development of solutions to the challenges they face.
Youth Empowerment and Engagement
Idimogu emphasized the importance of the conference in providing the youth with an opportunity to express their grievances and propose constructive solutions for a better Nigeria. He stated:
“It is good that the President is giving the youth a voice. After all, all the protests that we have been witnessing, they are the ones marshalling them.”
He further encouraged young people to approach the forum with innovative ideas, fostering interaction between the youth and the government. He remarked:
“Maybe with this forum, the youth will now understand where the president is coming from, and the president will also understand the grievances of the youth.”
Caution Against Misuse of the Conference
While Idimogu expressed optimism about the conference, he cautioned that it should not devolve into a “money-sharing jamboree,” which could undermine its intended purpose. He believes that the president’s announcement has inspired Nigerians to maintain faith in the country and trust in his administration.
Conclusion
The support from the Ndigbo in Lagos APC reflects a broader recognition of the need for inclusive governance and dialogue in addressing the aspirations and challenges faced by Nigeria’s youth. This initiative could pave the way for greater youth engagement in national affairs and contribute to building a more equitable and responsive government.