Joel Ajayi 

The Ministry of Youth Development, in partnership with the National Defence College, has launched a high-level conference designed to prepare young Nigerians for leadership roles across different sectors of national life.

Declaring the event open, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, represented by the Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, described the initiative as “a bold step towards shaping the leadership architecture of our beloved country.”He noted that with over 70% of Nigeria’s population being youth, “the future is not a distant dream; it is in the hands, hearts, and minds of our young people today.”

The President, however, cautioned that “energy without direction and potential without preparation can lead to frustration.” He underscored the urgency of values-based leadership and the inclusion of youth in addressing both national and global challenges such as cybersecurity, climate change, healthcare, food security, and innovation.

He urged participants to “learn, engage, collaborate, and form lasting friendships,” stressing that the leadership skills gained must extend beyond the conference into everyday civic life. He also called on policymakers, educators, and stakeholders to provide young people with quality education, mentorship, economic opportunities, and platforms for inclusive governance.

“The Nigeria we desire tomorrow depends on the leadership we build today,” President Tinubu stated.

In his keynote remarks, the Honourable Minister of Youth Development, represented by his Chief of Staff, Mallam Abdullahi Mohamed emphasized the significance of this partnership, especially at a time when the majority of Nigerians are within the youth age bracket.

“We believe the wealth of this nation is not in its oil or gas, but in the vibrant energy and potential of our youth. The future of Nigeria rests squarely in their hands,” the Minister said.

He noted that Nigeria’s strength is increasingly measured by the quality of its leadership and the readiness of young citizens to take on responsibility. He described the collaboration with the National Defence College as both timely and vital, rooted in shared values of discipline, innovation, courage, and creativity.

“Today, leadership depends not just on position but on values. This conference offers young people a platform to engage, learn, and grow into the leaders our nation needs,” he added.

The Minister encouraged participants to approach the conference with focus and open minds, expressing confidence that the ideas, networks, and strategies developed would significantly shape Nigeria’s future.

Also addressing the gathering, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, represented by Hon. Mohammed Jalo of Igabi Federal Constituency, Kaduna reaffirmed the importance of empowering young Nigerians for national progress.

In his remarks, the Commandant of the National Defence College, Rear Admiral Jo Okosun, highlighted the central role of youth in nation-building.

He stressed that “the strength of a country lies in its youth, and by investing in them, the future of Nigeria is safe in their hands.”

The conference brings together young leaders, policymakers, and experts from across the country to deliberate on youth empowerment, leadership development, and strategies for national advancement.

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