Nigeria’s Vice President on Thursday advocated for collective efforts in bridging generational divide in the country, thereby, reaffirming the trust the present adminstration has on the youth.
He said empowering the young ones in the country is a foundation for Nigeria’s long term development objective and Africa’s integration goals.
Senator Kashim Shettima, while revealing that the youth are pivotal in Nigeria and Africa’s future, they are the fulcrum of President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and can steer national progress.
“There is no nation that can prosper without investing in its youth, Shettima said at the 2024 Youth Legacy Conference, held at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, Nigeria’s capital.
“The President is deeply committed to ensuring that the youth not only have a voice but are active participants in shaping our collective destiny”, he added.
Represented by the Deputy Chief of Staff to the President (Office of the Vice President), Senator Ibrahim Hassan Hadejia, Shettima emphasised that the young generation are not just leaders of tomorrow; but, are the anchors of today.
He said the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and Agenda 2063, is a platform for young Nigerians to show their innovative prowess, as entrepreneurs and leaders.
“AfCFTA is not just about trade; it is about creating opportunities for our youth to connect, innovate, and lead Africa into a new era of prosperity. Agenda 2063 envisions an integrated and prosperous Africa, but it is the energy, creativity, and resilience of our youth that will transform this vision into reality”, Senator Shettima further said.
While admonishing the Mandela Washington Fellows for its exemplary leadership and service, he said what it has shown is the proof that when youth are given the chance to succeed, they exceed expectations.
“Your work in education, healthcare, and social justice serves as an inspiration for generations to come”, he posited.
The conference saw the launch of the Ubuntu Trade App, a digital drive aimed at boosting Africa’s trade integration and market access for young entrepreneurs.
The United States Ambassador to Nigeria, Richard M. Mills, represented by the Deputy Chief of Mission, US Embassy, David J. Greene, encouraged the association to build a network of a free trade area for improved ideas and human connections in the continent of Africa.
He commended Sen. Shettima for his support in hosting the event.The Diplomat was convinced of the leadership training, and networking opportunities availed for young Africans working to fast-track economic growth and prosperity to strengthen democratic institutions and to enhance peace security in communities, particularly Nigeria and across Africa.
President of the MWFAAN, Ms Farida Yahaya, said the association is intent in addressing Nigeria’s pressing challenges and explained that the goal of the association lies in its commitment to the principle of “service before self”.
She added that the alumni has shown this through wise use of its resources in growing African communities.
XWe were inspired, equipped, and empowered by the Mandela Washington Fellowship to become catalysts for positive change”, she said.
“Today, as we reflect on this remarkable decade, we are awed by the collective impact of our alumni.
“Our association has been more than just a network; it has been a movement. We have come together, driven by a shared passion for service and a commitment to making a difference.
“We have broken barriers, challenged the status quo, and made significant strides in addressing Nigeria’s most pressing challenges. From grassroots initiatives to national policy reforms, our impact has been far-reaching and enduring”, she enumerated.
The theme for this year’s conference is “Shaping Africa’s Future with AfCFTA and Agenda 2063″.