By Mercy Aikoye
Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Benjamin Kalu, emphasized the crucial role African youths play in achieving Agenda 2063. This ambitious plan aims to transform Africa into a global powerhouse.
Agenda 2063 is the African Union’s blueprint for inclusive development, peace, and prosperity. Kalu believes Nigerian youths have the capacity to champion this transformation.
While delivering a keynote address at the Arise Nigeria Youth Summit 2024, Kalu encouraged youths to be bold, visionary, and collaborative for societal good.
The Summit celebrated African Youth Day with the theme “The Future of Nigeria: Youth, Leadership and National Development.”
Kalu described youths as the heartbeat of Africa’s future, innovators, leaders, and change-makers driving toward Agenda 2063’s vision.
He acknowledged young Africans’ power, resilience, and creativity despite challenges like unemployment, insecurity, and inequality.
“Africa needs your voice, your ideas, and your leadership,” Kalu urged. “Let’s build a continent where every young African thrives.”
He emphasized the importance of unity, collective dreams, and empowering youths through education, entrepreneurship, and good governance.
The road to 2063 is long and challenging, but Kalu believes determination, innovation, and collaboration will shape a brighter continent.
Chairman Martins Esin stressed the need to amplify young people’s voices and channel their energy toward shaping Africa’s future.
Esin urged youths to utilize technology positively, connect, share ideas, and grow.
Minister of Youth Development Ayodele Olawande reaffirmed the government’s commitment to empowering youths.
Olawande described youths as agents of change who should work together across barriers to craft a better future.
Special Assistant Joy Akut highlighted Nigeria’s youth as a gold mine of untapped potential, brimming with talent, intelligence, and ambition.
The event featured goodwill messages from Friedrich Ebert Stiftung and the International Republican Institute and the unveiling of Hon. Karu Simon’s book, “Listening to Your Inner Mentor.”
