Leadership from key youth organizations across Nigeria, including the Emerging Leaders Forum, Arewa Youth Federation, Igbo Youth Council, Oduduwa Youth Parliament, Niger-Delta Youth Front, Youth Assembly of Nigeria, National Association of Nigerian Students, and North Central Youth Congress, among others, convened to voice their support for the national interest.
Hon. Godstime Chukwubuikem Samuel, representing the National Leadership of the Nigerian Youth Unions’ Government (NYUG) in collaboration with member youth bodies, expressed deep appreciation to President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for his decisive appointment of a military veteran, General Christopher Musa (Rtd), as Minister of Defence. Samuel praised the combination of General Musa’s combat experience with the retention of Dr. Bello Matawalle as Minister of State for Defence, emphasizing confidence in their ability to lead the Ministry effectively.
“We thank President Tinubu for listening to reason and appointing leaders with the requisite experience and capacity to strengthen our nation’s security,” the statement read. “We also salute the President for standing firm in retaining Dr. Matawalle despite political opposition campaigns, demonstrating his commitment to his mandate.”
The youth leaders further lauded the President’s recent ambassadorial appointments, describing them as a clear demonstration of his resolve to strengthen Nigeria’s diplomatic ties and promote collaboration for economic, security, and developmental advancement.
Highlighting areas for further reform, NYUG urged President Tinubu to consider appointing a National Security Adviser with a military or intelligence background, ideally from the DIA, NIA, or DSS, to enhance the efficiency of the country’s security system. The statement also called for a review of the Nigerian Police Force, including the potential replacement of the Inspector-General of Police, to introduce fresh leadership and innovative approaches in tackling insecurity.
Additionally, the youth leaders emphasized that state governors should be held accountable for persistent security challenges in their states, suggesting that a state of emergency could be declared where insecurity remains unaddressed.
On youth development, NYUG recommended the appointment of a functional Senior Special Assistant on Youth and Talent Development to advance youth empowerment initiatives across Nigeria.
The statement concluded with a call for national unity and equitable governance:
“We pledge our support to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in upholding the true essence of brotherhood, irrespective of tribe, religion, or region, and in promoting justice and prosperity for all Nigerians.”
