By Abdulkareem Haruna

Governor of Borno State, Babagana Zulum, has emphasized the urgent need for skills acquisition, improved educational opportunities, and scholarship programs to curb rising youth restiveness and unemployment. 

Speaking at the 7th National Council on Youths Meeting (NCYM) held on Thursday at the Government House, Zulum highlighted the critical role of youth in shaping the nation’s future.

Themed “Transforming and Repositioning the Nigerian Youth to Thrive and Catalyze Economic Development,” the meeting brought together key stakeholders to discuss strategies for empowering Nigeria’s youth. 

As the Chief Host, Zulum expressed pride in Borno’s role in facilitating this important dialogue, which he described as an opportunity for innovation and collaboration.

Since his assumption of office in 2019, Professor Zulum said he has been able to navigate the challenges posed by the Boko Haram crisis, prioritizing youth empowerment through various initiatives. These include vocational training programs, scholarships, and the establishment of mechanical villages, alongside the distribution of vehicles to support entrepreneurship across the state’s 27 local government areas.

Zulum remarked on the potential of Nigeria’s youth, noting that approximately 70% of the population is under 30, representing a significant opportunity for economic growth. 

“Our youth are an invaluable asset,” he stated, acknowledging the challenges they face, including economic instability and barriers to education. However, he expressed optimism about their resilience and capacity for driving change.

The Governor also recognized the contributions of Borno youth to peace and security, citing the role of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) in enhancing the state’s security landscape. ”Borno has reclaimed its status as a home of peace and hospitality,” he said, inviting participants to engage meaningfully during the meeting.

Zulum reiterated the government’s commitment to equipping youth with the necessary resources for success, asserting that investing in young people is essential for the nation’s future. He commended the Federal Minister of Youth and Sports Development, Mr. Ayodele Olawande, and other stakeholders for choosing Borno as the venue for the NCYM, urging collaborative efforts to improve youth prospects.

Minister Olawande thanked the Borno State Government for hosting the meeting, even as echoed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to advancing youth interests as part of the Renewed Hope Agenda. He encouraged other states to follow Borno’s lead in nurturing youth development.

In his welcome address, Borno’s Commissioner for Youths, Sports and Poverty Alleviation, Hon. Saina Buba, praised Governor Zulum’s dedication to youth empowerment, noting significant investments in skills acquisition centers and scholarships for indigenous students both locally and abroad.

The meeting concluded with a collective commitment to enhancing the lives of Nigeria’s youth, recognizing them as a driving force for national development.