International Youth Day: Young Nigerians Are Our Greatest Asset — Obi

Peter Obi, presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) for the 2027 election, has described Nigerian youths as the country’s greatest national asset.

Obi stated this in a message marking International Youth Day, where he saluted the courage, creativity, energy and potential of young Nigerians across different sectors.

He said the capabilities of Nigerian youths were evident in areas including football, technology, medicine, aviation, entrepreneurship, academia and the creative industries.

Recalling a recent trip to Bauchi, Obi said he was reminded of what young Nigerians could achieve after travelling with two young pilots.

“The two captains who flew us were young men of 20 and 28 years respectively,” he said, describing their competence, confidence and professionalism as evidence that age should not be a barrier to excellence.

Obi said Nigeria had no shortage of talent but needed deliberate investment and an enabling environment to help young people realise their potential.

“We must create a country where a young Nigerian does not have to leave Nigeria to fulfil his or her potential,” he said.

He called for increased investment in quality education, skills, healthcare, technology, sports and decent employment, saying such measures would create more opportunities for young Nigerians to thrive.

“Our youths are not a burden to be managed. They are our greatest national asset and the builders of the Nigeria we desire,” Obi said.

The NDC presidential candidate reaffirmed his commitment to a Nigeria where every young person has the opportunity to learn, work, create, lead and prosper.

“With the support and active participation of the youth, a new Nigeria is possible,” he added.