- President Bola Tinubu argues that the removal of the fuel subsidy was essential to ensure long-term national development and prosperity for Nigeria's youth
- Tinubu stressed that the youth are at the heart of Nigeria’s future, with policies designed to create opportunities for their growth and participation in governance
- The president highlighted positive shifts in the economy, with falling prices, improving confidence, and technological advancements
President Bola Tinubu has again defended his administration's decision to remove the fuel subsidy, stating that it was a necessary step to secure the future of Nigeria's unborn generations.
Recall that Tinubu had cited the increment of states’ allocations and the attendant delight of governors as a justification for his removal of fuel subsidy.
Nigeria’s 16th head of state made these remarks during the inauguration of the National Youth Congress Planning Committee at the Council Chambers in the Presidential Villa on Monday, March 10.
During his speech, President Tinubu emphasised his commitment to youth empowerment, noting that government policies were tailored to ensure a prosperous future for the nation.
“Every decision I’ve made is all about tomorrow,” Tinubu said, adding that the removal of the fuel subsidy was aimed at safeguarding the future of the youth and ensuring the country’s long-term development.
He also stressed that addressing issues such as the outflow of Nigerians seeking opportunities abroad, commonly referred to as "Japa," requires investing in the country’s infrastructure and empowering citizens.
“When you grow prosperity back home and empower people, they will not leave. They will stay here to build and prosper,” he explained.
The president further noted that despite early challenges, the country's economy has shown significant improvement. “Today, the economy has turned the corner, prices are falling, confidence is improving, and technology is advancing,” he said, highlighting the opportunities now available to young Nigerians.
Tinubu reassured the youth that his administration was committed to creating a better Nigeria. He encouraged the youth to take the responsibility of shaping the country’s future seriously, emphasising that over 60 per cent of the Nigerian population is made up of young people.
“You are the heartbeat of our nation,” he added, calling on them to actively participate in the country's development.
Tinubu expresses support for National Youth Congress
The event also saw the inauguration of the National Youth Congress Planning Committee. In his speech, Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, stressed that the committee's formation was a step toward enhancing youth engagement in governance.
He described the Tinubu administration as a listening government, open to incorporating the ideas and contributions of young people.
Olawande revealed that the committee was composed of representatives from the Federal Ministry of Finance, civil society organisations, NGOs, the World Bank, and other relevant sectors.
He noted that the committee’s role was to plan and champion the upcoming conference aimed at addressing issues affecting Nigerian youth.
Samson Itodo, a lead member of the planning committee and Executive Director of Yiaga Africa, praised President Tinubu for recognising the importance of youth in the country's development, emphasising the significance of the conference in shaping the future of young Nigerians.
President Tinubu concluded the event by reiterating his full support for the committee and its goals, encouraging the youth to make the most of the opportunities ahead.
Tinubu urges govs, ministers to do more for people at Iftar
Meanwhile, TheRadar earlier reported that President Tinubu hosted an Iftar dinner with political leaders, urging them to prioritise the poor and vulnerable.
He highlighted ongoing economic reforms and the need for effective resource management.