14th April, 2017
The New Partnership for Africa’s Development (NEPAD), has decried the “nonchalant attitude of Nigerian youths towards developmental issues in the continent”.
Princess Gloria Akobundu, National Coordinator and Chief Executive Officer of NEPAD Nigeria, expressed the view on Thursday, when she paid a courtesy call on the Governor of Niger State, Alhaji Abubakar Bello.
Akobundu called on youths in the country to compete favourably with their counterparts in other African countries, saying that the opportunities were massive and should be fully explored.
She advised Nigerian youths to get involved and participate in both national and international events.
“It is time to get serious; Nigerian youths must be serious because the leadership of this country will one day get into their hands.
“How will they approach the leadership of the country if they failed to get involved now?”, she asked.
She explained that Africa would be a better place if the youths took advantage of the numerous opportunities that abound on the continent.
“There are small loans to start up something. Identify the right agencies, go there and ask questions.
“At NEPAD, our doors are always opened. We will direct and help you because you are our future,” he added.
READ: Group calls for support on innovations to empower women, youths
In his response, Governor Bello said that the state had outlined activities and programmes targeted at reducing extreme poverty, and ensuring good governance.
The governor, who was represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Ibrahim Ladan, said that the administration had embarked on programmes that would keep youths engaged so as to reduce youth restiveness.
Also speaking, NEPAD Director General in Niger, Mr Abdullahi Ketso, said that NEPAD would train 2,000 youths from the 25 Local Governments, in various skills.