National Youth Conference Set for February 2025 Amid Mixed Reactions

The Federal Government has announced February 2025 as the date for the highly anticipated National Youth Conference.

President Bola Tinubu initially revealed the plan during his Independence Day broadcast, emphasizing that the 30-day gathering aims to address critical issues like unemployment, education, and youth political participation.

The conference, a response to youth-led protests such as #EndBadGovernance in August 2024 and #FearlessOctober, has garnered mixed reactions. While some youth groups welcomed the initiative, others expressed frustration over delays in execution.

The Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, confirmed that National Youth Conference would involve grassroots engagement across federal constituencies, states, and local government areas, culminating in a final week of deliberations in Abuja.

“This is not going to be the usual talk-and-spend conference,” Olawande stated, adding that actionable outcomes will be prioritized.

Despite these assurances, prominent youth groups, including the Arewa Youth Consultative Forum and Yoruba Youths Council, criticized the government for its lack of urgency. They argue the delay undermines the administration’s credibility and the opportunity to amplify youth voices.

As preparations continue, youth leaders urge the government to honor its commitment, with many advocating for greater youth inclusion in governance and actionable solutions to pressing challenges.