The Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Population and APC candidate for Okitipupa/Irele Federal Constituency, Hon. (Omo’ba) Okunjimi John Odimayo, has described Nigerian youths as critical drivers of innovation, inclusive development and national renewal.
Odimayo stated this in a goodwill message to mark the 2026 International Youth Day, with the theme, “Different Contexts, Common Aspirations.”
He said the theme aptly captured the diverse realities of young people across communities while highlighting their shared aspirations for quality education, decent employment, dignity, inclusion and opportunities to participate meaningfully in shaping their future.
The federal lawmaker noted that Nigeria’s youthful population remained one of the country’s greatest assets, stressing that young Nigerians possess enormous potential in technology, entrepreneurship, creativity, innovation and leadership.
According to him, unlocking the potential of the nation’s youth requires sustained investment in education, digital skills, entrepreneurship, employment and leadership development.
Odimayo said youths should no longer be viewed merely as beneficiaries of government policies and programmes, but as active partners, innovators and co-creators of national development.
He urged young Nigerians to embrace continuous learning, innovation, responsible citizenship and constructive participation in governance, saying their active involvement was essential to building a stronger and more inclusive society.
The lawmaker also called on governments at all levels, the private sector and civil society organisations to deepen their partnerships and create sustainable opportunities that would enable young people to thrive.
He congratulated Nigerian youths on the occasion and reaffirmed the importance of creating an environment where their talents, ideas and aspirations could translate into tangible development.
The message was signed by Victor Adedeji, Director of Media and Publicity to Odimayo.
