By Oladisun Amosun
Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Benjamin Kalu has expressed staunch belief in Africa, especially Nigeria Youths’ potentials towards achieving the Continental Agenda 2063.
The Agenda 2063, an ambitious plan, is the African Union’s blueprint for transforming Africa into a global powerhouse, grounded in inclusive development, peace, and prosperity.
Kalu said Nigerian youths have the capacity to champion this transformation, adding that the development of the African continent lies in the youths as he encouraged them to be bold, visionary and continue to work together for the good of the society.
The Deputy Speaker said this in a virtual keynote address at the Arise Nigeria Youth Summit 2024, held at the National Assembly Complex in Abuja.
The Summit was to celebrate the African Youth Day with the theme: “The Future of Nigeria: Youth, Leadership and National Development.”
The topic of the keynote address was “Harnessing the Power of Africa’s Youth: Driving Innovation, Leadership and Sustainable Development in Nigeria.”
He described Youths as the heartbeat of Africa’s future, the innovators, leaders, and change-makers who will lead the drive toward the vision of Agenda 2063-a peaceful, prosperous, and integrated Africa.
The Deputy Speaker acknowledged the power, resilience, and creativity of young Africans across the African continent.
He said, “Despite the challenges of unemployment, insecurity, and inequality, you continue to inspire hope with your entrepreneurial spirit, digital innovation, and passion for social justice.”
“Now more than ever, Africa needs your voice, your ideas, and your leadership. Let us commit today to building a continent where every young African has the opportunity to thrive, where unity transcends division, and where our collective dreams become reality.
“Africa’s future is in your hands-be bold, be visionary, and continue to rise. Together, we will shape the Africa we want” he further charged.
Chairman of the occasion and member representing Oron/Mho/Okoji/Udung Uko/Urueoffong Oruko Federal Constituency of Akwa Ibom State, Rep Martins Esin, said there is need to amplify the voices of African young people and urged that their energies be channeled towards shaping a brighter future for the continent.
Represented by the Deputy Chairman of the House Committee on Public Accounts, Jeremiah Umaru, he said youths were the driving force, capable of leading Africa to new heights
On his part, the Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, said the government was committed to empowering the youths in realizing their potentials
The Minister was represented by the Regional Coordinator, West Africa, Afri-Arab Youth Council (AAYC), Ambassador Akoshile Muktar added that the present administration of President Bola Tinubu was dedicated to creating pathways for youths not just to participate but to lead.