Abuja: Prof. Attahiru Jega, former Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), and Sen. Abubakar Bagudu, Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, have emphasized the need for empowering and constructively engaging youths to enhance national development. Jega and Bagudu made this call during the 10th Anniversary celebration of the youth-led organization, ‘I Am Change’ (IAC), themed ’10 Years of Impact: Changing Lives, One Act at a Time’.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Jega highlighted the importance of harnessing the energy, creativity, and innovation of Nigeria’s youth for sustainable development. He pointed out the disconnect between recognizing youths as future leaders and providing them with the necessary opportunities, capacity, and motivation to assume such roles responsibly. Jega stressed that insufficient investment in youth education and employment has led many to become disillusioned or negatively involved in political and governance processes.
Jega warned of the dire consequences of not addressing these issues, which could compromise the potential of youth as future leaders and adversely affect Nigeria’s socio-economic progress. He urged federal and state governments to support credible youth-led organizations, encouraging political and civil society involvement. Jega commended the IAC for its decade-long impact, advocating for greater inclusion of youth in political and governance processes.
Sen. Abubakar Bagudu, speaking at the event, called for a renewed national commitment to youth development, community transformation, and economic reforms. He acknowledged Nigeria’s youthful demographic as both an advantage and a challenge, emphasizing the importance of equipping young people with the right skills. Bagudu reiterated President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope message, urging Nigerians, especially youths, to support each other and believe in their dreams.
The Executive Director of IAC, Hafsatu Shinkafi, described the organization’s 10-year journey as ‘a decade of defiance and dedication’. She highlighted IAC’s focus on human development, civic education, skills, and economic empowerment. Shinkafi underscored the organization’s contributions to initiatives like the Not-Too-Young-To-Run bill and called for continued support from stakeholders and partners.