The Federal Government has reiterated its commitment towards empowering youths in areas of education, digital skills, entrepreneurship, and creative industries, among others.

Ayodele Olawande, the Minister of Youth Development, made this known in Abuja on Monday.

Speaking during a press conference ahead of the 2025 national youth day scheduled to commence on November 27, 2025,

Olawande, who was represented by Muhammed Abdullahi, his Chief of Staff, disclosed the youth day will bring together youths across Nigeria.

He stated that, “It is a timely reminder that the future of Africa lies in the hands of our youth, a generation that is more connected, more informed, and more capable than ever.

“As we stand at the crossroads of economic transformation, technological advancement, and cultural renaissance, our youth are not just participants in change, they are the actual drivers.

“As a government, we reaffirm our commitment to youth empowerment through investments in education, digital skills, entrepreneurship, the creative industries, and civic engagement. We are working hand-in-hand with regional partners and international stakeholders to ensure that our youth have access to the resources, mentorship, and opportunities they need to thrive.

“Let me also use this opportunity to call on private sector leaders, development agencies, and civil society to intensify their support for youth-led initiatives. The time has come for a truly Pan-African youth agenda one that transcends borders and leverages our shared aspirations.

“To Nigerian youths and youth leaders from across Africa that will be attending this event, I look forward to seeing you all in Abuja. Your voices matter. Your ideas count. Your dreams are valid. The Nigerian and African dream of prosperity, peace, and unity cannot be realised without you.”

The National Youth Festival in Nigeria is centred around the National Youth Conference 2025, a fully funded initiative by the Federal Government to empower young Nigerians.

The conference aims to provide a platform for young leaders, innovators, and change-makers to network, engage in discussions, share ideas, and contribute to shaping Nigeria’s future.

The event is designed to be youth-led, inclusive, and non-partisan, with a 50:50 gender balance and maximum consideration for persons with disabilities.

Approximately 1,000 delegates will be selected from all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, with all expenses covered, including transportation, accommodation, and meals.

The conference focuses on several thematic pillars, including governance and political participation, entrepreneurship and job creation, climate action and energy transition, education and seven-star skills, technology and digital innovation, and security and social cohesion. The event will feature virtual consultations and policy submissions, culminating in a national gathering where selected delegates will deliberate on the submitted issues.

The final recommendations will be presented to the Federal Executive Council and the National Assembly for adoption and implementation.

The conference is expected to produce actionable outcomes, not mere rhetoric, and will provide a platform for young Nigerians to shape national development and policy direction actively.