Former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi has paid tribute to Nigerian youths on the occasion of International Youth Day, describing them as the country’s greatest asset and a critical force for national development.
In a message released on Tuesday, Obi praised the courage, creativity, energy and immense potential of young Nigerians, stressing that they should not be viewed merely as future leaders but as valuable contributors to the nation’s progress today.
According to him, young people across the country continue to demonstrate exceptional talent and capacity in different sectors despite the many challenges confronting them.
Reflecting on a recent trip to Bauchi, Obi said he was once again reminded of the capabilities of Nigerian youths. He disclosed that the aircraft on which he travelled was piloted by two young men aged 20 and 28, while other crew members were also in their twenties.
He said their professionalism, confidence and competence served as a strong reminder that age is not a limitation when young people are given the opportunity to acquire skills, gain experience and assume responsibility.
“Their competence, confidence and professionalism were a powerful reminder that age is no barrier to excellence when young people are allowed to learn, work and lead,” Obi stated.
The former Anambra State governor noted that Nigerian youths are excelling in football, technology, medicine, aviation, entrepreneurship, academia, the creative industry and many other fields. He said these achievements show clearly that the country is not lacking in talent.
“What we lack is the deliberate investment and enabling environment to help that talent flourish,” he added.
Obi argued that government at all levels must make greater investments in quality education, skills acquisition, healthcare, technology, sports and job creation. He said such investments are essential if the country is to harness the full potential of its youthful population.
He also stressed the need to build an environment in which young Nigerians can pursue their ambitions and achieve success within the country rather than being compelled to seek opportunities abroad.
“We must create a country where a young Nigerian does not have to leave Nigeria to fulfil his or her potential,” he said.
Obi rejected the notion that young people constitute a burden on society, insisting instead that they represent Nigeria’s most valuable national resource and the foundation upon which a better future can be built.
“Our youths are not a burden to be managed. They are our greatest national asset and the builders of the Nigeria we desire,” he stated.
On the occasion of International Youth Day, Obi said he was celebrating the achievements and resilience of Nigerian youths and reaffirmed his commitment to policies that would expand opportunities for them.
He pledged support for initiatives that would enable young Nigerians to learn, work, innovate, lead and prosper, maintaining that national transformation would be impossible without their active participation.
“With the support and active participation of the youth, a new Nigeria is possible,” Obi said.
He concluded his message by wishing young Nigerians a happy International Youth Day and encouraging them to continue striving for excellence in their respective fields despite existing challenges.
