Abuja: President Bola Tinubu has expressed optimism that Nigeria can retain its professionals by bolstering the economy and implementing policies that address citizens’ needs. On Monday, while inaugurating the Planning Committee for the National Youth Conference at the State House, President Tinubu highlighted that ongoing economic reforms are designed to create a prosperous future for Nigerian youths, who make up over 60% of the population.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, President Tinubu emphasized the significance of recent economic measures, such as the removal of the fuel subsidy, as steps to secure a better future for the youth. He stated that these decisions were made to lay a foundation for prosperity and to encourage professionals to remain in Nigeria by empowering them at home.
Addressing the 44-member planning committee, the President assured them that their recommendations and the framework for the national conference would be implemented. He stressed the importance of youth involvement in national development and reiterated the government’s focus on empowering them.
President Tinubu noted that his administration’s economic reforms have led to a decline in the prices of goods and a stabilization of the exchange rate, which has increased confidence in the Nigerian economy among investors. He encouraged the committee to seize the opportunity to advance the nation’s development and expressed his willingness to consider their suggestions for national prosperity.
Mr. Ayodele Olawande, the Minister of Youth Development, expressed gratitude to the President for prioritizing youth voices and highlighted the benefits of the administration’s student loan schemes and infrastructural developments. He noted that these initiatives have positively impacted over 260,000 students and included significant projects like the renovation of the Third Mainland Bridge.
Mr. Samson Itodo, a member of the committee, outlined the priorities for the conference, which include political governance, economic transformation, skills for the future, climate change, energy transition, and social cohesion. He emphasized that the conference would serve as a milestone in enhancing youth involvement in national development, utilizing virtual consultations, regional meetings, and an Abuja congress.