Abuja: The President of the United Nigerian Youths Congress (UNYC) has called for a renewed focus on national interest, urging Nigerians to put the country first in all endeavours.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the President of UNYC, Naseer Chamber, made the call in Abuja, at the 2025 National Youth Conference with the theme ‘Nigeria First: Leadership, Solution for National Growth’. Chamber emphasized that the theme for this year’s conference was deliberately chosen to instill a sense of patriotism and sacrifice for the nation. He noted that successful countries prioritize their national interests above all else.
Chamber expressed disappointment with the current political landscape, stating, “Unfortunately, the politicians we have and the citizens are in no way helping hands.” Despite this, he highlighted the turnout at the conference as a testament to the patriotism of Nigerians, saying, “Look at the hall today. Look at Nigerians from all over the country coming. It shows us their level of patriotism. Nigerians love their country.”
The UNYC President reiterated the organization’s commitment to building youth capacity, unifying the nation, and supporting reforms in various sectors, including the military and police. He emphasized that Nigeria’s diversity is a strength, not a weakness. Chamber urged Nigerian youths to answer the call of history, the future, and their country with courage and unity. He stated, “With this coalition, we are not just preparing for the future; we are creating it.”
Chamber also expressed the determination of UNYC to change the country’s narrative by nurturing youths who prioritize Nigeria. He added, “In the long run, that Nigeria that we are putting first will help us in challenging, whether it is the authority or those in positions of authority, to replace them.”
Mr. Suleiman Mande, the Director of Programmes at UNYC, also spoke at the event, describing the conference as a form of reparation. Mande highlighted that the conference brought together stakeholders to address serious national issues and provide solutions. He expressed optimism that policymakers would listen to and implement the recommendations discussed.
Mande voiced confidence in Nigeria’s ability to overcome its current challenges, emphasizing the importance of sensitization, advocacy, and enlightenment campaigns. He reiterated that developed countries achieved progress through their own efforts and that Nigerians could do the same with determination and commitment. Mande concluded by expressing hope that the conference would set the stage and send the right message for national growth.