By Jane Okeke
The Amalgamation of Regional Youth Organizations of Nigeria (ARYON) has passed a vote of confidence on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, citing ongoing economic, educational, infrastructural, governance and energy sector reforms as evidence of efforts aimed at repositioning the country for sustainable growth and development.
The youth coalition also called on Nigerian youths to embrace unity, patriotism and constructive engagement as critical ingredients for national progress.
In a statement signed by its National President, Mallam Ibrahim Ibrahim, ARYON expressed concern over what it described as attempts by certain individuals and groups to promote division, spread discontent and undermine national cohesion.
According to the organisation, while constructive criticism remains an essential component of democracy, deliberate efforts to destabilise the country and discourage citizens from supporting national development should be rejected.
”Today, more than ever before, Nigerian youths must rise above ethnic, religious, regional and political differences to embrace a common vision of a united, prosperous and progressive nation.
”We cannot fold our arms and watch enemies of national development sow seeds of division among our people. We must stand together as one generation, one people and one nation committed to building a stronger Nigeria,” the statement read.
ARYON also endorsed the forthcoming Renewed Hope Youth Festival scheduled to hold on June 12, 2026, at the MKO Abiola National Stadium, Abuja, describing it as a platform for youth development, leadership growth, community engagement, sports advancement and talent discovery.
The organisation noted that the initiative aligns with the aspirations of young Nigerians seeking opportunities, empowerment and national integration.
According to Ibrahim, the festival provides an avenue for engagement, networking, entrepreneurship, leadership development and productive citizenship, urging youths across the country to participate in initiatives that foster innovation and nation-building.
On governance, ARYON said it had carefully assessed developments under the Tinubu administration over the past three years and concluded that the government deserves support for undertaking reforms aimed at addressing long-standing structural challenges.
The group acknowledged that some of the reforms have imposed short-term difficulties on citizens but argued that they were necessary steps toward economic recovery and sustainable development.
”We therefore urge Nigerians to remain patient, resilient and supportive as the nation continues on the path of reform and recovery,” Ibrahim stated.
Highlighting key achievements of the administration, ARYON pointed to the removal of fuel subsidy and the unification of the foreign exchange market, which it said have improved revenues available to state and local governments and enhanced their capacity to invest in infrastructure, healthcare, education and social services.
The organisation also commended government efforts in youth empowerment and human capital development, particularly through the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) and the 3 Million Technical Talent (3MTT) programme.
According to the group, these initiatives have expanded access to higher education and equipped young Nigerians with digital and technological skills required in a competitive global economy.
ARYON further noted that the appointment of young Nigerians into strategic leadership positions demonstrates the administration’s commitment to youth inclusion and participation in governance.
On infrastructure, the coalition cited major projects including the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway and the Sokoto-Badagry Super Highway as critical investments capable of boosting connectivity, economic growth and job creation.
The organisation also commended efforts to strengthen local governance through local government autonomy as well as ongoing security operations against criminal and terrorist groups across the country.
In the energy sector, ARYON praised President Tinubu’s commitment to renewable energy development and energy transition under the Renewed Hope Agenda.
The group specifically highlighted the revised National Energy Policy and National Energy Master Plan as strategic frameworks designed to expand access to affordable and sustainable energy while attracting investment into the sector.
It also commended the Director-General and Chief Executive Officer of the Energy Commission of Nigeria, Dr. Mustapha Abdullahi, for driving the implementation of key energy initiatives.
Among the projects cited were the Renewed Hope Solarisation Programme, the 7MW Solar Power Project at Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital, the Electric Vehicle Charging Station in Abuja, the Renewable Energy College in Kogi State and the inauguration of the National Energy Master Plan Implementation Committee.
ARYON also expressed solidarity with victims of insecurity across the country, particularly those affected by kidnapping, banditry, terrorism and other violent crimes.
The organisation called for the immediate release of all persons held captive by criminal groups and urged security agencies to intensify efforts to apprehend and prosecute perpetrators of violence.
It further acknowledged the support of Barrister Seyi Tinubu for youth-focused initiatives and programmes.
The coalition stressed that Nigerian youths must reject divisive narratives and unite behind the ideals of peace, innovation, productivity and nation-building.
”This is not the time for despair. This is not the time for division.
”This is the time for Nigerian youths to unite behind the ideals of peace, productivity, innovation, patriotism and nation-building.
”The future of Nigeria cannot be outsourced to a few individuals. It must be built collectively by millions of determined young Nigerians who believe in the possibilities of this nation,” Ibrahim stated.
He urged young Nigerians to actively support initiatives that promote development, strengthen democracy and foster national unity.
”Nigeria will not be divided. Nigeria will not be sabotaged. Nigeria will rise,” he added.
Group passes vote of confidence on Tinubu, urges youths to unite for national development
