International Youth Day 2024: Reps Assures Youths Of Brighter Future

By Ayodele Oni

The House of Representatives has highlighted various measures it is identifying with the youths to ensure a better and guaranteed future.

The house, in a message to Nigerians youths to commemorate International Youth Day 2024, with the theme “From Clicks to Progress: Youth Digital Pathways for Sustainable Development,” assured that the 10th House of Representatives remains committed to the welfare of the youths.

“With over 60% of Nigeria’s population under the age of 35, and approximately 110 million young people aged 15-34, the youth are a vital force driving our country’s future.

“Recognizing their potential, the House is committed to empowering young Nigerians as a key strategy for achieving sustainable development.

“In alignment with this commitment, the House introduced Agenda 6 on Inclusion, which focuses on integrating youth into national development processes.

“The establishment of two dedicated committees – the Committee on Youth Development and the Committee on Youth in Parliament in July 2023, further exemplifies this commitment.

“These committees play a crucial role in addressing youth-related issues and ensuring that young Nigerians have a voice in legislative matters.

“At a recent Town Hall Meeting with Youth Groups and Organisations, Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, PhD, reinforced this dedication announcing the House’s commitment to engaging with the youth biannually.

“An initiative that aims to facilitate ongoing dialogue, ensuring that the concerns and ideas of young Nigerians are integrated into legislative processes.”

The statement, signed by the spokesman  of the house, Akin Rotimi Jnr quoted, Speaker Abbas, that “the 10th House, under my leadership, has prioritized youth-oriented legislation and will continue to give issues affecting Nigeria’s youth the utmost attention that they deserve.”

He also urged the youth to remain patriotic and law-abiding, while seeking their belief that Nigeria would succeed.

Also, Chairman of the House Committee on Youth Development,  Esin Martins Etim, PDP, Akwa Ibom, further stated: “Aligned with our Legislative Agenda, we are resolute in advocating for a youth-responsive budget to strengthen youth empowerment and broaden access to vocational and technological training.

“Our commitment is to formulate policies that advance digital literacy and open up opportunities for young Nigerians to thrive in an increasingly digital world.”

Chairman of the House Committee on Youth in Parliament, Olamijuwonlo Alao-Akala, APC, Oyo, added that “The 10th House of Representatives is dedicated to providing economic opportunities, fostering inclusion, and enhancing youth participation in governance.

“By prioritizing these areas, we aim to create a more inclusive and progressive Nigeria where the youth can thrive and contribute to national development.”