Nigerians Criticize Tinubu for Using Planned Youth Conference to Distract from Failing Policies

Critics are raising concerns about President Bola Tinubu’s recent proposal for a youth conference, suggesting it is a tactic to distract from his administration’s failed policies and secure support for the 2027 election.

In his October 1 Independence Day speech, Tinubu announced plans for a 30-day national youth conference aimed at addressing the issues facing Nigerian youth, who make up over 60% of the population. According to the president, the conference will foster dialogue, ensuring the voices of young people help shape policies for a brighter future.

However, not all Nigerians are convinced. The Voters Rights Association of Nigeria (VRAN), led by human rights lawyer Jezie Ekejiuba, dismissed the conference as a “national jamboree” designed to waste resources and further enrich corrupt officials. Ekejiuba accused Tinubu of organizing the event to divert attention from the economic hardship caused by his administration’s removal of fuel subsidies, a move that has worsened living conditions for many Nigerians.

Ekejiuba also expressed skepticism about the selection of delegates for the conference, arguing that it would likely be dominated by the children of political elites rather than representatives from ordinary Nigerian families. He cited the #EndBadGovernance protests as a clear indication of the struggles faced by young Nigerians and urged the government to take concrete action rather than engage in rhetoric.

Similarly, the president of the Middle Belt Forum (MBF), Dr. Pogu Bitrus, criticized the proposed conference, describing it as a political maneuver aimed at securing Tinubu’s reelection. He suggested that the government should focus on implementing recommendations from the 2014 National Conference, which had already outlined solutions to many of the problems facing Nigeria’s youth.

In contrast, some figures, such as Alhaji Yerim Shettima, president of the Arewa Youth Consultative Forum (AYCF), have welcomed the proposal. Shettima commended Tinubu’s effort to engage with the youth but cautioned that any dialogue must result in tangible actions rather than empty promises.

Public affairs commentator Ikechukwu Onodi shared a more cynical view, labeling the conference a “diversionary tactic” to distract the public from ongoing corruption and bad governance. Onodi argued that the initiative is part of a broader strategy to win over young voters ahead of the 2027 election.

Despite these differing perspectives, the general sentiment remains one of skepticism, with many Nigerians calling for meaningful action rather than further political grandstanding. The proposed conference, while intended to address youth concerns, has sparked debate over its true purpose and whether it will lead to real change.