South West Youth Group Kicks Against Exclusion From Summit, Demands Sack Of Minister

By Ayodele Oni

Some aggrieved youths in South West have accused the Minister of Youths, Dr Jamila Ibrahim of non performance and urged President Bola Tinubu to sack her.

Apparently angered by their non invitation to a youth Summit programme for South West, which was held in Akure, Ondo state on Tuesday, the group, under the South West Youth Action Network, noted that Jamila’s role is crucial in shaping policies that should empower the youth and address their concerns.

A statement, signed by Kayode Seun, Coordinator of the group, stated that

“…she has effectively surrendered the Ministry to ineffectiveness. Her lack of effective communication and engagement with young Nigerians has been glaring.

“Dr. Jamila, who is a product of the ruling class lacks the understanding of the poor people of Nigeria nor the lofty visions of her young people.

“Reports indicate that instead of spearheading initiatives that resonate with the aspirations of the youth, she has been predominantly absent from major dialogues, leaving young people feeling marginalized and unheard.

“In recent months, Nigeria has witnessed a surge in unrest, with the voices of the youth echoing across the nation for change and accountability.

“At the forefront of the causal effect leading to unrest is the Hon. Minister of Youths, Dr. Jamila Ibrahim, whose actions and decisions have increasingly come under scrutiny. It is clear that her tenure is not just underwhelming but detrimental to the interests of Nigerian youth and overall governance.

“The idea that she is performing below expectations makes it justifiable in the interest of Nigerian youths, It is time to say, “#JamilaMUSTGO.”

“This disengagement has fostered frustration and disillusionment within the youth demographic, fueling unrest across various regions. The current protest could have been averted or reduced to the bearest minimum with an effective youth minister who better understands the plight of young people.

“Furthermore, her controversial policies, perceived as out of touch with the realities faced by Nigerian youth, have only exacerbated the situation.

“Many of her initiatives lack transparency and meaningful input from the people they are supposed to serve. The mere thought that a meager few is selected for her proposed Southwest programme in Ondo State further shows the lack of insight.

“This top-down approach has not only caused a rift between the youths and the government but has also cast a shadow over the Tinubu administration’s commitment to inclusivity and progress.

“Dr. Jamila’s inaction in addressing pressing issues such as unemployment, lack of access to education, and youth empowerment. Her inability to implement substantial programmes that offer real solutions has left many young Nigerians frustrated and hopeless.

“That the renewed hope is now gradually looking like rocket science and mirage. The current unrest is a reflection of this accumulated dissatisfaction, and as the Minister, her failure to act decisively compounds the issues.

“An effective leader must inspire confidence and foster positive change. Unfortunately, Dr. Jamila Ibrahim’s tenure has instead become synonymous with disappointment and discontent. The continued unrest serves as a direct indictment of her leadership and its impact on the Tinubu administration’s credibility.

“As Nigeria moves forward, it is critical that leadership reflects the needs and aspirations of the people, particularly the youth. Consequently, we are announcing and calling for Dr. Jamila Ibrahim to step down. It is not just a critique of her individual actions but a broader demand for a better direction that resonates with the hopes of a nation yearning for change. For the sake of Nigeria’s future, #JamilaMUSTGO.”