During the closing ceremony of the 2026 National Youth Conference in Abuja, President Bola Tinubu acknowledged the difficulties faced by Nigerian youths, including unemployment, the rising cost of living, and access to education. He emphasized that his administration has a duty to meet the expectations of the younger generation.
Tinubu noted that Nigeria’s economic landscape has been impacted by the removal of petrol subsidies and the floating of the naira, alongside global conflicts affecting energy and commodity markets. He pointed out that these factors have exacerbated living costs and created insecurities that disrupt local economies, farming, and education.
He stated that young Nigerians deserve more than merely explanations regarding economic hardships, asserting that his administration is committed to expanding opportunities through investments in education, skills development, innovation, and entrepreneurship. Acknowledging the legitimate concerns of the youth, Tinubu affirmed the need for a nation where hard work is rewarded and opportunities are accessible regardless of personal background.
The President mentioned several initiatives aimed at supporting youth, including the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), the Three Million Technical Talent program, YouthCred, and the Nigerian Youth Academy. He pledged to enhance employment through skills training, attract investments in innovation, and ensure continued access to financing for young entrepreneurs.
In his remarks, delivered by House Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, Tinubu concluded that the government’s economic reforms, while requiring sacrifices, should ultimately lead to tangible improvements in the lives of young Nigerians.
