President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, has delivered a powerful message to Nigerian youths, calling on them to remain in the country and actively participate in building a stronger, more prosperous Nigeria.
In his Democracy Day national broadcast, the President emphasized: “To our young people: Nigeria is your home and your future. Build here, code here, work here, and vote here.” He stressed that every great nation was built by citizens who stayed to solve problems rather than those who abandoned the ship.
President Tinubu acknowledged the challenges facing young Nigerians but highlighted the administration’s ongoing reforms under the Renewed Hope Agenda, including initiatives in technology, innovation, job creation, and economic diversification aimed at creating opportunities for the youth. He urged young people to channel their energy, creativity, and talent into national development, particularly in the tech ecosystem, entrepreneurship, agriculture, creative industries, and governance.
“Criticise me, disagree with me, but never stop believing in the nation,” the President added. He reiterated that meaningful progress depends on the active participation of young people in nation-building and democratic processes.
The message comes as part of broader efforts to stem the tide of emigration (popularly known as “Japa”) by creating an enabling environment for young Nigerians to thrive at home. The administration has been rolling out policies to support digital skills development, startup funding, infrastructure improvements, and youth empowerment programmes.