President Bola Tinubu says that human capital flight can be reversed by improving the economy, developing bottom-up policies that address needs, and deepening citizens’ collective sense of ownership.
The President, who inaugurated the Planning Committee for the National Youth Conference at the State House, assured that the ongoing economic reforms were designed to strengthen the economy for the prosperity of Nigerian youths.
“I want to reassure you that you are the hope of this country, and everything hangs on you. Every decision that I have taken is about you. It’s about the future. When we removed the fuel subsidy, it was because we wanted to protect your future. We have cleared the path for you to have a great future,” President Tinubu said.
“When you listen to most professionals leaving Nigeria, there’s a cause. If you grow prosperity back home and empower people, they will not bother leaving. They will stay home.”
The President told the 44-member planning committee that the government would implement the outcomes of their deliberations and framework for the national conference.
“This is your opportunity to develop the nation and make it prosperous. The government of today is all about you. You can be critical of politicians and abuse them all the way you can, but politics is about development and the future of generations. You are the heartbeat 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 hereafter. I am with you,” he said.
He noted that the economic reforms had repositioned the economy for greater prosperity and empowerment, adding that most indicators have shown a steady fall in the prices of goods, especially foodstuffs, and a stabilisation of the exchange rate.
“When we started, it looked so foggy, dicey and hopeless. We worked hard, and it was like drawing water out of a dry well. But today, the economy has turned the corner; prices are falling, confidence in our economy is improving, investors are looking this way, and technology is advancing.
“You have a great opportunity, and I am ready to listen to you. I have heard your spokesperson’s remarks. You have a great chance of advancing the development of this country. It is all in your hands.
“My position is to help navigate, push, and lift the heavy weight of problems so that I can clear the way for you. You have a great future before you, which is in your hands.
“Just look me in the face and tell me whatever you think is wrong and the way forward. Be frank. We will implement your suggestions so long as they are for the country’s prosperity,” the President added.
The Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, thanked the President for giving the youth a voice and assured that the committee represented various stakeholders fairly.
A member of the committee, Samson Itodo, said the President’s convening of the conference would be a major milestone in involving the youth in the country’s development.
