In celebration of Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary, a significant dialogue will take place on Tuesday, led by the Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande; Prof. Tunji Olaopa, chairman of the Federal Civil Service Commission (FCSC); and Iyinoluwa Aboyeji, CEO of Future Africa. This event will focus on engaging Nigerian youth in discussions about restoring core national values and enhancing civic engagement.
The event is hosted by the Citizenship and Leadership Training Centre (CLTC) in partnership with the United Nations Inter-Agency Group on Youth (UNIAGY) and the Nigeria Youth Futures Fund (NYFF). It carries the theme “Nigeria @ 65: Reviving Values and Volunteerism among the Youth.”
Amid Nigeria’s ongoing quest for unity and trustworthy governance, the conference seeks to inspire young Nigerians to adopt a renewed spirit of service, volunteerism, and community leadership, which are essential for national cohesion.
Chinwe Nduka, Head of Information at CLTC, emphasized in a recent statement that this initiative encourages youth to view service and civic responsibility as vital tools for restoring national values and reinforcing societal bonds.
A highlight of the event will be the grand finale of the Youth Leadership Debate, an NYFF program designed to provide young Nigerians with a platform to express innovative ideas and share their vision for a united and resilient country.
Distinguished youth leaders expected to contribute include Samson Itodo, Executive Director of YIAGA Africa; Rotimi Olawale, Executive Director of Youth Hub Africa; Elisabeth Agbiti-Douglas, Director of NYFF; Mrs. Abiodun Essiet, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Community Engagement for the North Central region; Hon. Mohammed Abba Isa, Senior Special Assistant on Special Needs and Equal Opportunities; Dr. Titilope Gbadamosi, Senior Advisor on Youth Initiatives; Surayyah Ahmad, Founding Partner of Sabou Capital; Aishat Dahiru, Youth Focal Point at IOM Nigeria; Rafiat Atanda, Communications Specialist at UNODC; and Rex Stephen Ojochegbe, a student from Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University.
Backed by the Federal Ministry of Youth Development and the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), this conference underscores the shared belief that Nigeria’s progress hinges on empowering its youth to take an active role in shaping the nation’s destiny.
Attendees will include representatives from universities, youth-led organizations, and grassroots groups across the country, with virtual participation options available to maximize accessibility and engagement.
With an inspiring roster of speakers and stimulating discussions, the CLTC conference aims not only to commemorate Nigeria’s Independence Day but also to ignite a movement among young Nigerians committed to rebuilding the nation through honesty, creativity, and dedicated service.
