Nigerian Youths Central to President Tinubu’s Vision for National Progress says Vice-President Shettima
The Federal Government has reiterated its commitment to youth empowerment as a cornerstone of Nigeria’s development strategy and Africa’s broader integration goals.
Vice-President Kashim Shettima emphasized this at the 2024 Youth Legacy Conference in Abuja, where he stressed that the youth play a crucial role in shaping the future of both Nigeria and the African continent.
Shettima, who was represented by Deputy Chief of Staff Sen. Ibrahim Hadejia, highlighted the importance of bridging generational divides and empowering young people to actively participate in national progress.
Furthermore, he underscored that the youth are not just leaders of tomorrow but the anchors of today, with President Bola Tinubu deeply committed to ensuring their involvement in governance and shaping the nation’s destiny.
Shettima also pointed to the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and Agenda 2063 as key opportunities for young Nigerians to thrive as innovators, entrepreneurs, and leaders. He described AfCFTA not only as a trade agreement but as a platform for creating opportunities for youth to connect, innovate, and drive Africa towards a prosperous future. With Agenda 2063 aiming to create an integrated and prosperous Africa, Shettima emphasized that the energy and creativity of young people would be crucial in turning this vision into reality. He also commended the Mandela Washington Fellowship Alumni for their leadership and service, noting their significant contributions to sectors like education, healthcare, and social justice.
At the event, U.S. Ambassador to Nigeria Richard Mills, represented by Deputy Chief of Mission David Greene, praised Shettima for his support in hosting the conference and acknowledged the fellowship’s role in fostering leadership and economic growth. Mills highlighted how the fellowship strengthens democratic institutions and enhances peace and security, not just in Nigeria but across the continent. He noted that the program has facilitated the emergence of young leaders who are actively promoting employment, economic prosperity, and social cohesion in their communities.
The conference also marked the launch of the Ubuntu Trade App, which aims to boost intra-African trade and empower young entrepreneurs by providing access to cross-border markets. Hajiya Hauwa Liman, Technical Adviser to the Vice-President on Women and Youth Engagement, said the app represents a significant step in advancing Africa’s economic integration.
Meanwhile, the President of the Mandela Washington Fellowship Alumni Association of Nigeria, Farida Yahaya, reflected on the association’s decade-long impact, stressing the importance of service, mentorship, and innovation in shaping a better future for Nigeria and Africa as a whole. The event was attended by key figures including the Minister of State for Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, and the Director-General of the National Youth Service Corps, Brig.-Gen. Yusha’u Ahmed.
