The untapped power of Nigeria’s youth: Why their exclusion is crippling the nation’s future

DDM News

In the history of Nigeria’s political journey, the role of its youth has largely been overlooked by successive governments.

From the colonial era to the present, the youth have been underutilized in the nation’s development plans.

Diaspora digital media (DDM) revailed that despite their vibrant energy and potential, they have often been left on the sidelines, waiting for the right opportunities to make a significant impact.

For many years, the youth were viewed as mere bystanders in the country’s progress.

The policies of past leaders, both colonial and post-colonial, failed to address the need for the active involvement of young Nigerians in nation-building.

Even after Nigeria gained independence in 1960, the youth continued to be sidelined, contributing little to the decisions that shaped the future of the nation.

It remains a mystery how Nigeria has managed to grow and progress without fully engaging its youth.

The country’s future success depends heavily on its ability to harness the potential of its younger generations.

The youth are not only the present of the nation but also its future.

They represent the drive, creativity, and innovation that can propel Nigeria forward, provided they are given the opportunities and resources to succeed.

Recent developments in Nigeria’s democratic landscape seem to be a turning point for the youth.

A new approach to governance is emerging, one that seeks to institutionalize youth participation at every level of government.

For the country to move beyond its past struggles, it is essential that the youth be given the opportunity to rewrite the narrative and create a new path for Nigeria’s future.

The key to unlocking Nigeria’s potential lies with its youth.

Young people are the ones with the energy and vision to lead the country toward prosperity.

They are the ones who can challenge the status quo and introduce new ways of thinking and governance.

The youth have an inherent ability to create change, but they must be provided with the right tools, mentorship, and platforms to channel their energies effectively.

However, the youth in Nigeria have often faced disillusionment due to the failure of leaders to address their needs.

Promises of a brighter future have repeatedly been dashed, leading to a sense of frustration among young Nigerians.

This frustration has manifested in negative behaviors, including increased involvement in criminal activities and unrest.

A lack of opportunities, coupled with feelings of neglect, has created an environment where the youth struggle to see a future for themselves.

When the youth are properly engaged and supported, they can become a driving force for positive change.

Providing the youth with access to education, employment, and leadership opportunities can help restore their faith in the system.

It is crucial that the government and other institutions focus on empowering young Nigerians so they can contribute positively to the country’s development.

A key component of this empowerment is the nurturing of patriotism and national pride among the youth.

When young Nigerians feel a sense of responsibility toward their country, they are more likely to invest in its growth and success.

The government’s role in this process is to create the conditions that allow the youth to thrive.

This includes ensuring access to quality education, facilitating job creation, and promoting youth leadership at all levels of governance.

At the heart of this change is the Labour Party, which has long been known for its commitment to the youth.

Under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu, Nigeria is set to witness a new era of youth involvement in politics and governance.

In February 2025, President Tinubu will convene a national youth conference, a historic event that will give young Nigerians a platform to voice their concerns, contribute to policy-making, and shape the future of the country.

This youth conference is a significant milestone in Nigeria’s democratic evolution.

It is a clear signal that the government recognizes the importance of involving young people in the decision-making process.

By engaging the youth in this way, the government is not only addressing their concerns but also acknowledging the critical role they play in Nigeria’s future development.

The Labour Party’s dedication to youth empowerment is further evidenced by its selection of Engr. (Dr.) Anslem Eragbe Aphimia as the National Youth Leader.

As the CEO of CEAGIS Properties Ltd., Aphimia has been at the forefront of initiatives aimed at providing young Nigerians with the skills and opportunities they need to succeed.

Through his efforts, many young people have been able to access training and employment opportunities, helping to reduce unemployment and insecurity among the youth.

The collaboration between the Federal Government and CEAGIS Properties Ltd. is also making a significant impact.

Together, they are funding various youth empowerment programs designed to create jobs and provide financial support for young Nigerians.

These programs are expected to engage millions of young people in productive activities that will not only benefit them but also contribute to the overall development of the country.

With the youth now being actively engaged, there is hope for a brighter future in Nigeria.

The focus on youth empowerment, leadership, and employment is already having a positive effect on the nation.

If this momentum continues, Nigeria could see a reduction in youth unemployment and restiveness, which have long been major challenges.

Furthermore, the potential for a future Nigerian president emerging from the youth fold is becoming increasingly likely, thanks to the efforts of political parties like the Labour Party, which are dedicated to advancing youth leadership.

In the near future, it is entirely possible that Nigeria will see its first youth president, a leader who understands the needs and aspirations of the younger generation.

This shift would not only be a significant political achievement but also a symbol of the country’s commitment to progress, efficiency, and prosperity.

The time has come for Nigeria to embrace the power of its youth.

The country’s future depends on the active involvement of young people in all aspects of governance and leadership.

With the right support and opportunities, the youth can drive Nigeria toward greatness.

In conclusion, Nigeria must continue to focus on empowering its youth if it is to achieve lasting progress.

A nation that fails to invest in its younger generations is a nation that risks stagnation and decline.

By including the youth in the political process, providing them with the tools they need to succeed, and giving them leadership opportunities, Nigeria can build a prosperous future for all its citizens.

The youth are the future of Nigeria, and with the right policies and support, they can lead the country to new heights of success.

Power belongs to the youth, and it is time for Nigeria to recognize their importance in shaping the nation’s destiny.

Let the youth be the drivers of progress and the architects of a brighter future for Nigeria.

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