Critics argue that the proposed 30-day youth conference is a political gimmick aimed at diverting attention from pressing issues, while others fear it’s a ploy to win youth support for the 2027 elections
President Bola Tinubu’s proposal for a 30-day national youth conference, announced during his October 1 Independence Speech, has been met with widespread criticism, with many Nigerians accusing him of using the initiative to distract from his administration’s failed policies. While the government insists the conference aims to address youth concerns and engage in meaningful dialogue, critics see it as a political move aimed at shoring up support ahead of the 2027 election.
A vocal group, the Voters Rights Association of Nigeria (VRAN), led by human rights lawyer Jezie Ekejiuba, dismissed the conference as a “national jamboree.” They argue that the real purpose behind the event is to allow political elites to embezzle funds saved from the fuel subsidy removal, rather than genuinely addressing the challenges facing Nigerian youth. VRAN further contends that the delegates chosen for the event will likely be from the privileged political class, rather than ordinary Nigerians struggling under the current economic hardships.
VRAN emphasized that the problems facing Nigerian youth are already well known, citing previous protests, such as the #EndBadGovernance movement, as clear indicators of the country’s youth struggles. They argue that what the youth need are tangible actions, not another round of rhetoric or empty promises.
Similarly, Dr. Pogu Bitrus, President of the Middle Belt Forum, also criticized the conference, calling it a “political gimmick.” He suggested that instead of organizing new conferences, the government should focus on implementing the recommendations of the 2014 National Conference report, which already outlines solutions to many of the issues facing Nigerian youth.
However, not everyone is dismissive of the initiative. Alhaji Yerim Shettima, President of the Arewa Youth Consultative Forum (AYCF), expressed cautious optimism, acknowledging that while the idea of engaging the youth is commendable, the government must ensure that the outcomes of the conference are followed by real actions. He warned that without concrete steps, the event risks being another empty dialogue.
Lawyer and public commentator Ikechukwu Onodi voiced his skepticism, labeling the conference a diversionary tactic aimed at distracting Nigerians from the government’s failures. He argued that the initiative is designed to win over the youth ahead of the 2027 elections, rather than addressing their needs.
In summary, while the proposed youth conference has its supporters, the prevailing sentiment among critics is that it is a politically motivated effort to deflect attention from the administration’s shortcomings and secure support for Tinubu’s reelection bid.
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Time waster.