President Bola Tinubu has defended his decision to remove the fuel subsidy, saying it was necessary to protect the future of unborn generations.
Speaking on Monday at the inauguration of the National Youth Congress Planning Committee at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to youth empowerment and national development.
“I’ve listened to you carefully. Today is not for long speeches, but I want to reassure you that you are the hope of this country,” he said.
“Every decision I have taken is about tomorrow. When you remove oil subsidy, you are protecting the future of generations yet unborn. If we grow prosperity back home and empower people, they will stay and develop the country instead of leaving.”
The president urged the youth to take governance seriously, adding that his administration is working to stabilize the economy.
“When we started, it looked so foggy, dicey, and hopeless. We were fetching water from a dry well, but today, the economy has turned the corner. Prices are falling, confidence is improving, and investors are looking in,” he said.
He encouraged young people to engage in nation-building and promised to listen to their concerns.
“I assure you we’ll do everything possible to make Nigeria a better place for you, but we can’t do it alone. You represent over 60 percent of our population, the heartbeat of our nation.
“Look at me in the face, tell me what is wrong and what you suggest. If it is for the prosperity of this country, we’ll implement it.”
While inaugurating the planning committee, Tinubu called for innovative approaches to youth development.
“Let’s employ technology in every way possible, improve farming conditions, and work towards food sovereignty. I like you all. I can’t be young again, maybe in the next life, but I’m envious of you.”
Minister of Youth Development Ayodele Olawande described the upcoming congress as an avenue to promote youth engagement.
He noted that members of the planning committee were drawn from government ministries, civil society organisations, and international bodies like the World Bank.
Yiaga Africa’s executive director, Samson Itodo, praised Tinubu for recognizing the role of youth in governance.
The president’s speech comes amid social media criticism directed at his son, Seyi Tinubu.
Social media critic Martins Ortse popularly known as VeryDarkMan recently called on Seyi to use his position to advocate for youth interests while criticising the president.
“Seyi Tinubu, you’re the closest the youth have ever been to power. You need to be very useful to us,” he said in parts.
