Fuel Subsidy Removal Was To Protect Your Future, Tinubu Tells Nigerian Youths

President Bola Tinubu stated on Monday that every choice he has made thus far, including the withdrawal of fuel subsidies, is centred on Nigerian youths and their future.

Tinubu spoke at the State House in Abuja to inaugurate the Planning Committee for the National Youth Conference.

He reassured that the ongoing economic changes were intended to enhance the economy for the benefit of Nigerian youngsters, who make up more than 60% of the population.

“I want to tell you that you are our country’s hope, and everything depends on you. Every decision I’ve made is about you. It is about the future. We cancelled the fuel subsidy because we wanted to protect your future. We have paved the way for you to have a bright future,”

Tinubu was reported as saying in a statement issued by his spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga.

“There is a reason why the majority of professionals are leaving Nigeria. If prosperity is promoted and people are empowered at home, they will opt to remain. “They will stay at home.”

The president informed the 44-member planning committee that the administration would carry out the findings of their discussions and the framework for the national conference.

“This is your chance to build the nation and make it affluent. The current government is all about you. You can critique and attack politicians, but politics is about progress and future generations.

“You are the lifeblood of our nation, and I hope you take this responsibility seriously. I am glad you are here as a committee to inspire today, tomorrow, and forever.” I’m with you,” he said.

The president stated that economic reforms had repositioned the economy for more prosperity and empowerment. Most indices showed a continuous drop in commodity costs, particularly for food, as well as a stability of the exchange rate.

“When we first started, everything appeared murky, tricky, and hopeless. We toiled hard, and it was like draining water from a dry well. Today, the economy has made significant progress: prices are declining, investor confidence is increasing, and technology is advancing.

“You have an excellent chance, and I am willing to listen to you. I heard your spokesperson’s comments. You have a fantastic opportunity to advance the growth of this country.

It’s all up to you.” My role is to assist in navigating, pushing, and lifting the heavy weight of obstacles in order to clear the way for you. You have a bright future ahead of you, and it is in your hands.

“Look me in the eye and inform me of your opinion on the matter and the course of action.” Be candid. “We will implement your suggestions as long as they are beneficial to the country’s prosperity,” the president stated.

Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, commended the president for giving the young a voice and guaranteed that the committee represented all stakeholders properly.

“We want to thank you for your forward-thinking ideas; over 260,000 students have already benefited from the administration’s student loan programs. We welcome the reconstruction of the Third Mainland Bridge for our usage and the resolution of the passport backlog,” the minister stated.

The minister also congratulated the president for historic infrastructure projects that would last for generations.
Samson Itodo, a committee member, stated that the president’s decision to convene the conference will be a significant step towards incorporating young people in the country’s development.

Itodo identified some of the top priorities, including political governance, economic transformation, future skills like artificial intelligence, climate change and energy transition, and social cohesion and security.

He stated that the framework will include virtual consultations, calls for memoranda, regional town hall meetings, and the Abuja summit.