. .urges them to avoid kidnapping, thuggery, and insurgency

It’s time for Nigerian youth to build the country of their dreams, according to Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, who has advised them to make important contributions to the country’s advancement.

At the Nigeria Youth Futures Fund (NYFF) grants unveiling event in Abuja on Monday with the subject “Catalysing Youth Agency for the Nigeria We Want,” Kalu delivered the keynote speech.

The Ford Foundation, the MacArthur Foundation, and LEAP Africa collaborate on the NYFF project, which provides funds to young people for their empowerment.

The Deputy Speaker urged the youth to take advantage of this chance to improve their lot in life while encouraging the programme.

He emphasised that NYFF is having an influence that goes beyond the grantees and that it is encouraging other young Nigerians to see their own potential and take action in order to build a brighter future.

According to Kalu, the effect also promotes a thriving youth ecosystem in which young people are connected, empowered, and prepared to make a difference. Collaboration and information exchange are commonplace in this environment.

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“It is now your turn, Nigerian youth, to take up the mantle of leadership and carry on the march towards a better future,” he stated. The difficulties we confront are not insurmountable barriers, but rather chances for creativity, teamwork, and revolutionary transformation.

Enter the leadership sphere as designers of a new Nigeria, not as participants. Give your thoughts and opinions a chance to be heard, and let your deeds propel a country that genuinely embodies the hopes and dreams of its young people.

“Let us imagine a Nigeria where technology enables our youth to become the engines of economic growth, where entrepreneurship and innovation flourish.” Imagine a Nigeria where everyone feels appreciated and respected, where variety is welcomed, and where inclusiveness is the norm.

“My fellow Nigerians, the time to act is now.” Let’s take advantage of this chance to create the Nigeria we envision, a country that embodies our goals and aspirations as a people. Let’s unleash youth agency’s revolutionary power to move our country closer to a brighter future.

I serve as an example. I also recognised and took advantage of the potential in the leadership domain. From chairing the local government in my youth to serving two terms as a member of my state’s executive council to holding the position of deputy speaker in the House of Representatives, I’m still young.

Kalu encouraged the youth to avoid kidnapping, thuggery, and insurrection, saying that the grants serve as both financial lifelines and creative accelerators.

“This is a message for the youth: you are more capable than engaging in kidnapping or joining an insurgent group. You’re not limited to becoming a thug. You hold a great deal of power. It’s time for you to use it effectively,” he stated.

“By announcing these grants, we’re not just giving money away; we’re planting the seeds of a new era in which the voices of young Nigerians are heard, their energy is channelled, and their dreams come true,” the speaker stated.

Signed:

Levinus Nwabughiogu, Chief Press Secretary (CPS) to the Deputy Speaker, Federal Republic of Nigerian House of Representatives