The 2026 National Youth Conference got underway with a call to action from Comrade Eze Onyebuchi Chukwu, Chairman of the Forum of National Youth Leaders of all Political Parties in Nigeria. He emphasized that young Nigerians must ensure that recommendations from the conference translate into tangible results. The virtual opening ceremony marked a significant opportunity for young Nigerians to participate in discussions and decisions concerning the country's present and future.
Comrade Chukwu commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Federal Ministry of Youth Development, and collaborating youth networks for creating a platform for young people to contribute to decision-making processes. He noted that Nigeria has never lacked ideas but has faced challenges in converting good ideas into action. The success of the conference, he said, should be measured by the impact of its recommendations.
The Chairman of the Forum of National Youth Leaders stressed that participants should focus on practical pathways for building a better Nigeria. He challenged them to be constructive, courageous, and solution-oriented. Comrade Chukwu called for discussions on creating economic opportunities, equipping young Nigerians with skills for the digital economy, expanding political participation, and harnessing diversity to strengthen national unity.
Comrade Chukwu also emphasized the need for mechanisms to ensure that conference recommendations are implemented and tracked. He advocated for clear recommendations, responsible institutions, measurable timelines, and an effective monitoring framework. This, he believes, will help to ensure that the conference leads to tangible changes.
The youth leader urged young Nigerians to speak up, listen, demand, propose solutions, criticize where necessary, and provide alternatives. He also stressed the importance of preparing themselves for leadership responsibilities. Comrade Chukwu expressed hope that participants would look back at the conference and identify tangible changes resulting from their participation.
Comrade Chukwu encouraged young Nigerians to “participate, contribute and join to build” a peaceful, prosperous, and united Nigeria. He believes that collective efforts can lead to positive change. The conference provides a platform for young Nigerians to contribute to the country's development.
The 2026 National Youth Conference is a significant event that aims to empower young Nigerians to take an active role in shaping the country's future. With a focus on practical solutions and implementation, the conference is expected to lead to tangible changes. Key points from the conference include:
Key points
- Young Nigerians must convert conference recommendations into measurable action
- The success of the conference should be measured by the impact of its recommendations
- Mechanisms are needed to ensure that conference recommendations are implemented and tracked
