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Engage In Dialogue Rather Than Protest – CSOs, Bloggers, Content Creators Urge Nigerians
Jeph Ajayi
In a massive show of support for President Bola Tinubu’s administration, hundreds of Civil Society Organisations have taken to the streets of Abuja, Lagos, and other major state capitals in what has been described as a pro-rally.
In Lagos, a joint speech delivered by the Coalition of Civil Society Organisations urged Nigerians to channel their energy into constructive dialogue and collaboration with the government, rather than engage in protest that could bring chaos.
Murtala Adebayo who spoke on behalf of the over 20 groups said, “While we recognize the importance of expressing our concerns and advocating for change, we must also understand the potential dangers associated with organizing a violent protest”
He cautioned that protests, sometimes born out of genuine grievances, often lead to unintended consequences, adding that they can escalate into chaos, resulting in loss of lives, destruction of property, and a breakdown of social order.
According to him, “The proposed protest, if not managed carefully, is at the risk of being hijacked by hoodlums and elements with malicious intent. This could transform a peaceful demonstration into an event marked by violence and disorder, ultimately diverting attention from the legitimate issues at hand. We must not allow our efforts to be overshadowed by acts of violence and lawlessness.”
In Abuja, the Women Supporting Women For Good Governance (WSWGG) said under President Tinubu’s leadership, Nigeria has witnessed transformative policies aimed at empowering women economically, noting that a violent protest has the potential to reverse the gains made so far.
…said the administration’s focus on women’s entrepreneurship has led to the creation of numerous initiatives providing financial support and training for female entrepreneurs. The establishment of microcredit schemes and grants has enabled countless women to start and expand their businesses, contributing to economic growth and reducing gender inequality.
“However, in light of the proposed protest, it is crucial to consider the potential risks and consequences. Protests, while a democratic right, can sometimes be hijacked by elements with malicious intent, leading to violence and disruption. Such outcomes could undermine the progress we have made, particularly in empowering women and promoting good governance.”
In his address at a separate rally, Mallam Abubakar Malami, Secretary General of the Coalition of Civil Society Organisations in Nigeria (COCSON) urged Nigerians to consider alternative means of dialogue and engagement with the government.
According to him, “By working collaboratively, we can address our concerns while safeguarding the stability and progress we have achieved. Let us channel our energy towards constructive dialogue, fostering an environment of peace and development for the benefit of all Nigerians.”
He said in light of the achievements of the Tinubu administration, it is crucial to recognize the potential risks associated with the proposed protest.
He said, “While the right to protest is fundamental in a democracy, it is essential to ensure that our actions do not inadvertently disrupt the progress we have made. Unfortunately, protests can be susceptible to hijacking by hoodlums, leading to violence and destruction that undermine our collective efforts.”
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Olawande’s 21st Century Skills initiative, A Move Towards Re-fertilization Of Nigerian Youths
By Joel Ajayi
Transforming the Nigeria youths to equip the current and future generations with 21st century skills is important. The Africa and National Youth Day 2024 is therefore a historic moment to put a need 21st century skills at the forefront toward the the growth and development of all.
Nigeria as a nation has made meaningful progress in education over the past 60 years, with more girls in school and more students in Higher education system than ever before.
Reports showed that School completion rates have increased from 2000 to 2022 at all levels.
Still, these gains are insufficient to prepare Nigerians youth for the 21st century and its fast-changing professional landscape. By 2030, roughly 60 million jobs iin Nigeria and 230 million in Africa will demand digital skills. Classroom practices must shift to meet these future employability needs and nurture creativity, critical thinking and problem-solving.
Nigeria recorded the largest population of young people in the continent of Africa that means a 21st century skills is critical to to equip the current and future generations.
Based on this, Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande who has been promoter and advocate of digital skiill even before he became Minister has once again initiate digital literacy programmes, technical skills empowerment and leadership insight and urged young people to actively develop and adopt crucial 21st-century skills to effectively combat the rising issue of unemployment.
When he was Minister Youth for State, he introducing the Youth Development Fund to support young entrepreneurs, implementing the Youth Empowerment Program, training over 10,000 young people in vocational skills, establishing the Youth Mentorship Initiative, pairing young people with experienced professionals, and developing the National Youth Policy, providing a framework for youth development.
He also initiated the “One Youth One Ward” initiative to tackle drug abuse, established the Youth Innovation Hub, hosted the National Youth Conference, rolled out the Youth Volunteer Program, fostered partnerships with private sector organizations amongst others.
He has implement innovative programs, foster strategic partnerships, and demonstrated unwavering commitment to inclusivity and equal opportunities.
Now Minister of Youth without doubt has been at the forefront of this journey, demonstrating unwavering dedication to empowering Nigerians youth even from his school days.
Comrade Ayodele Olawande made this appeal today in Abuja during the Africa and National Youth Day Celebration with the theme : ‘ Educate an African Fit for the 21st Century’ and sub-theme: ‘Building a Resilient Education System: A New Hope for Nigerian Youth’,
He said such skills like critical thinking, digital literacy, and effective communications are essential tools for navigating the increasingly competitive job markets.
Olawande strongly advocated for the youth of Nigeria to prioritize the investment of their time and put efforts in developing a diverse range of essential skills and competencies by actively engaging in the pursuit that can significantly enhance their employability that will make them attractive candidates before their potential employers.
According to the Minister, “acquiring these skills will equip youth to confidently navigate the complexities and demands of an increasingly competitive job market, where adaptability and innovation are crucial. This proactive approach plays a vital role in addressing the rising unemployment crisis that has been affecting many young Nigerians today.”
“Through dedicated skill development, they can not only improve their job prospects but also lay the groundwork for sustainable career growth and success in the long run. In this rapidly evolving economic landscape, embracing continuous learning and professional development is not just beneficial; it is essential for achieving one’s career aspirations,” he explained.
The Minister further explained that the theme, “Educate an African Fit for the 21st Century,” serves as a powerful endorsement of the One Youth Two Skills initiative, adding that it will foster practical skills alongside formal education.
Olawande stated : “This initiative aims to empower youth and create sustainable employment opportunities. Ultimately, the initiative is a key component of the Renewed Hope Agenda, which seeks to eliminate unemployment and promote economic growth across the continent”.
In his paper presentation, Professor Ahmed Adamu, a lecturer at Nile University, Abuja, stated that by next year, 85 million jobs will be lost due to technological advancements, while 97 million new jobs are expected to be created.
Professor Adamu stressed that the future job market will heavily favour those individuals who proactively seek to acquire new skills and adapt to the evolving technological landscape.
Adamu said that for one to go far in whatever they are doing, they must be self-disciplined, duly intelligent and have the consistency in learning.
However, the minister of Youth led the teaming youths on a road walk from the Ministry to BMO Event Centre to Celebrate Africa and National Youth Day.
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